Director, Supply Chain

Samuel, Son & Co.; Waterloo; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in automation seeks a Supply Chain Manager to drive excellence in their end-to-end supply chain strategy. The role involves optimizing supplier relationships, leading strategic initiatives, and mentoring a high-performing team. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in automation and supply chain leadership, with strong negotiation and analytical skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in automation and supply chain leadership.
• Experience in global sourcing and supplier negotiations.
• Ability to travel locally and internationally.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead the execution of an integrated supply chain strategy.
• Build and manage supplier relationships to ensure optimal pricing and quality.
• Mentor and develop a high-performing team of supply chain professionals.

Skills

Negotiation

Leadership

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

University degree in engineering or business-related discipline

Tools

ERP systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Description

As a key member of the Samuel Automation Operations team, you will drive the evolution and excellence of our end-to-end supply chain strategy. Your leadership will enhance our operational effectiveness, support scalable growth, and ensure we deliver high-quality custom automated machinery on time and within budget. By optimizing our global supplier network and leveraging data-driven decision-making, you will play a critical role in enabling Samuel Automation’s continued growth and customer satisfaction.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Serve as a core member of the Samuel Automation Operations team, contributing to strategic planning and business execution with a focus on supply chain excellence.
• Develop and lead the execution of an integrated supply chain strategy that aligns with business goals across all Samuel Automation business units.
• Build and manage supplier relationships, ensuring optimal pricing, quality, lead times, and risk mitigation.
• Drive standardization in sourcing practices, inventory management, logistics, and procurement processes across the organization.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Operations, and Project Management to ensure alignment between supply chain capabilities and project requirements.
• Identify and implement tools, systems, and KPIs to enhance supply chain visibility, forecasting accuracy, and on-time delivery performance.
• Lead initiatives to improve cost efficiency, supplier diversification, and sustainability in the supply chain.
• Mentor and develop a high-performing team of supply chain professionals, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
• Monitor global market trends and supply chain risks, adjusting strategies to ensure business continuity and competitive advantage.
  
  

You’ll Be Great At

• Strong technical and business acumen with experience in automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Strong business and operational acumen with a deep understanding of supply chain principles, procurement strategies, and logistics operations.
• Proven ability to design and implement strategic supply chain initiatives that improve performance, reduce cost, and support growth.
• Excellent negotiation skills and experience managing supplier performance and relationships.
• Strong leadership and team-building capabilities, with a collaborative and results-oriented management style.
• Effective analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders across functions and levels.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and supply chain tools, with strong Microsoft Office skills.
  
  

Level of Autonomy and Authority

• Operates with significant autonomy, driving key technology initiatives and making strategic recommendations to leadership.
• Provides oversight and management of direct reports, including hiring, performance management, and mentorship.
• Contributes to high-level decision-making regarding technology investments, process improvements, and automation strategies.
  
  

Key Requirements

• University degree in engineering or business-related discipline preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in automation and or supply chain leadership.
• Experience in global sourcing and supplier negotiations.
• Demonstrated success in building high-performing teams and driving transformational supply chain change.
• Ability to travel locally and internationally, with availability for travel up to two weeks at a time.
• Valid passport and driver’s license required.