Director, Supply Chain Operations

SmartSweets; Vancouver; Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm is seeking a Director of Supply Chain Operations to lead their manufacturing efforts and optimize co-manufacturing processes. This role is crucial for ensuring quality and efficiency in production while fostering strong partnerships with suppliers. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in CPG manufacturing, particularly in the food sector, and will excel in strategic thinking and leadership. Join a passionate team dedicated to revolutionizing the candy industry by reducing sugar content, and contribute to a mission that champions diversity and continuous improvement. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in a fast-paced, rewarding environment.

Benefits

Free candy

Extended health benefits

Personal days

Company shutdown in December

Half days off on Fridays in summer

Flexible work environment

Cell phone bill reimbursement

Home office allowance

Parental leave top-up program

Paid volunteer day

Qualifications

• 7+ years in CPG Manufacturing at management level, preferably in food.
• Expert in MS Excel and experience with ERP systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all manufacturing activities and inventory management.
• Negotiate pricing and manage supplier relationships.
• Implement standardized processes to streamline operations.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Thinking

Project Management

Communication Skills

Data Analysis

Negotiation

Risk Management

Financial Acumen

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Food Science

Tools

MS Excel

Netsuite (ERP)

Job description

Director, Supply Chain Operations

As the Director, Supply Chain Operations, you will play a crucial role in overseeing all aspects of our manufacturing operations, establishing and maintaining partnerships with co-manufacturers, and managing procurement to ensure the efficient and effective production of our products. You will be responsible for overseeing the end-to-end co-manufacturing process, from selection and onboarding of partners to ongoing relationship management and performance optimization. This role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and operational expertise to drive quality, innovation, and cost-effectiveness across our co-manufacturing network.

This role reports to Sr. Director, Supply Chain and will be hybrid in Vancouver, BC. To support business priorities, core hours of attendance will be required from 9 am PST to 3 pm PST on these days. Candidates must be eligible to work in Canada.

Who We Are:

SmartSweets is revolutionising the candy industry by innovating the delicious candy you know and love with less sugar. We are passionate about growing and championing a diverse Squad of high-performing individuals and are fueled by our sweet culture. We are proudly Female-Founded and on our way to kicking 5.5 billion grams of excess sugar out of candy in a single year, what we call our Mission to Mars.

How You Will Support Our Mission (Responsibilities):

• Single point of accountability and primary internal contact for all manufacturing activities
• Responsible for inventory management of finished goods
• Oversee management and procurement of key primary ingredients and negotiate pricing. Primary liaison between the Company and suppliers
• Management of all displays, and marketing kit builds for customers, press, ambassadors, and influencers
• Major contributor to implementation of network and/or specific manufacturing changes (equipment installations, product innovations, packaging changes, formula changes, productivity projects, product transfers, etc.)
• Develop, review and manage manufacturing contract SLAs and contribute to manufacturing proposal reviews for new and existing innovations
• Responsible for all costing and cost negotiations of both current skus and new innovations as well as line extensions
• Annual Operation Planning execution and monthly budget variance analysis, including review and governance for pricing, spend and obsolescence
• Lead annual cost savings and cost mitigation efforts for all aspects of Operations
• Track and analyze production metrics to identify trends, issues, and areas for improvement
• Identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them effectively
• Develop and implement standardized processes, systems and procedures to streamline co-manufacturing operations
• Regularly communicate with partners to address issues, provide feedback, and develop and drive continuous improvement
• Capacity and capabilities management and execution with supplier/business partners
• Ensuring quality protocols, guidelines and metrics are implemented and adhered to
• Collaborate with internal departments to ensure operational deliverables are met
• Invoicing/PO approval accuracy and timeliness
• Develop team members and promote a culture of continuous learning and innovation, championing professional development to support long-term career aspirations
• Travel required across North America up to 10% of the time

What You Bring (Qualifications & Experience):

• + 7 years experience in CPG Manufacturing at a management level, preferably in the food industry
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Food Science, or related field an asset
• Expert level MS Excel, experience with Netsuite (ERP) is an asset
• Proven track record of successfully managing manufacturing operations and driving continuous improvement initiatives
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to plan, execute, and monitor projects within scope, budget, and timeline
• Financial acumen, with experience in budget management, variance analysis, and pricing governance
• Superior communication skills and ability to work effectively across functions with a solutions oriented mindset
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills; must be able to juggle priorities and pivot quickly as needed
• Demonstrated ability to manage supplier relationships and negotiate contracts
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop team members
• Proficiency in data analysis and problem-solving, with the ability to interpret data to make informed decisions and drive improvements
• Experience in risk management and implementing strategies to mitigate potential risks
• Professionalism, initiative & drive for results
• Self-motivated and excited to excel within a fast-paced company, comfortable adapting to and driving change
• Must have the ability to travel across North America

Compensation and Sweet Perks (Benefits):

The approximate base salary range for this position is $120,000 - $140,000. The actual base salary will be based on various factors, including the candidate’s level of skills, experience and education aligned with the needs of the role, budget and market. This position is eligible for participation in a bonus program based on performance and company results. Please note, individuals must be employed by 09/30/25 to be eligible for the 2025 bonus.

In addition to base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits (Sweet Perks) package:

• Bear Benefits (free candy!)
• Extended Benefits (health, dental, life & disability, STD, LTD, EAP)
• 2 Gummy Days (personal days)
• ️SweetWeek (company shutdown in December)
• Summer FriYAYs (half days off on Friday in the summer)
• Life, Work, Flow Philosophy (flexible work environment)
• Monthly Cell Phone bill reimbursement
• Home Allowance to optimise your remote workspace
• Parental Leave Top Up Program (inclusive to all parents)
• Individual Development Program and funding
• Community Love (paid Volunteer Day)
• Puppy Friendly Office
• Regular Squad Social Events

If this sounds like a sweet opportunity for you, apply directly on our Careers Page. Include your resume, cover letter, and let us know what excites you about kicking sugar out of candy!

Our Commitment to Celebrating Individuality (DEI)

We are committed to elevating the voices of Squad and community members on the mission to Kick Sugar, Keep Candy! We believe representing the uniqueness of all makes us stronger as a whole. We are making a difference by encouraging all Squad Members to practise allyship, educate themselves, inspire others to take action and support underrepresented communities.