Director of Supply Chain

Job Title: Director of Supply Chain (Sawmills & Woodlands)
Location: Saint John, New Brunswick
TP-18517

Established in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI), operates in Canada and the United States with over 19,000 employees and operations across multiple industries including agriculture, construction, consumer products, hydro energy, food, forestry, retail, shipbuilding, and transportation. They are committed to delivering high-quality products and services.

JDI continues to grow by investing in its workforce, producing high-quality products, and providing excellent service. The organization is recognized for its environmental performance, technological innovation, and community service.

Meridia is happy to partner with JD Irving, in their search for a Director of Supply Chain to lead their Supply Chain function in support of the Sawmills and Woodlands Operating divisions in Saint John, New Brunswick.

Role Description
The Director of Supply Chain will play a critical role in aligning the supply chain to support the needs and objectives of both the Sawmills and Woodlands divisions. Reporting directly to senior leadership, this role will require hands-on engagement with both internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure efficient delivery, effective supplier relationships, and consistently executing supply chain strategies which directly align with the objectives of the divisions. Additionally, the Director will build, lead and develop a high performing team, while monitoring departmental performance and key performance indicators.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Oversee and manage the full scope of supply chain operations for the Sawmills and Woodlands divisions, ensuring alignment with business objectives and strategic priorities.
• Build and maintain strong partnerships with key suppliers to guarantee competitive pricing, reliability, and consistent quality.
• Coordinate supply chain activities with maintenance teams, on-site personnel, and corporate functions to streamline processes and reduce operational inefficiencies.
• Design and implement new operational frameworks that promote long-term success and sustainability within the division.
• Serve as a strategic advisor to senior leadership on supply chain matters, with a focus on enhancing operational performance and driving cost-saving efficiencies.
• Foster a culture of trust and collaboration within the team and with internal stakeholders, ensuring a foundation of stability, consistency, and credibility.
• Lead and manage the supply chain team, including recruitment and staff development, to ensure optimal resource allocation and operational success.
• Facilitate clear communication and coordination across all organizational levels, promoting transparency and alignment throughout the supply chain.

Your Qualifications
As the ideal candidate, you hold a degree in a relevant field and have significant experience in a senior decision-making role. You have demonstrated the ability to step into operational roles and quickly gain credibility, combined with strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to roll up your sleeves to tackle challenges. You are a strategic thinker with hands-on operational expertise, capable of aligning site requirements with corporate goals and leading teams effectively. You are passionate about driving change and possess the energy and resilience to stay engaged over the long term, leading from the front.

Your qualifications include:

• A degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration/Commerce, Public Administration, or a related field; a Masters degree or MBA would be considered an asset.
• 10+ years of experience in supply chain management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proficiency in supply chain management software and tools.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strategic mindset with honed analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• A strong working knowledge of financial management practices and principles as it relates to supply chain operations.
• Comfortable working in non-centralized, co-located environments and be experienced in leading complex teams across different sites. Travel will be required, especially in the initial months, to establish relationships with teams across Truro, NS, Southern/Northern NB, and Northern/Southern Maine.

This is your opportunity to be part of a company with an expansive growth profile and a forward-thinking, innovative approach. You’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the supply chain division, helping to build it from the ground up while contributing to next-generation projects across the organization. Working alongside a leadership team driving a strategic shift in how the supply chain operates, you’ll have the chance to truly make an impact.

Joining JD Irving offers the opportunity to work with a leading organization committed to innovation and sustainability. JDI offers employees a competitive compensation and benefits package, professional development and growth opportunities, and a collaborative and inclusive work culture.

To express interest in this opportunity please apply online by clicking “Apply Now” below.

For more information contact Emma Roberts, Sr. Recruitment Specialist at 902-424-1104 and eroberts@kbrs.ca, or Heather Simmons, Recruitment Specialist at 902-421-2335 and hsimmons@kbrs.ca, or please apply online by clicking the “Apply Now” button below. If you require accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.

Meridia Recruitment Solutions connects leading organizations with top talent by building strong relationships and creating ideal matches with candidates because we are only successful when you are. We appreciate your interest in this opportunity.

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