JOB DESCRIPTION
As a Project Manager, Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) is responsible for the strategic development, execution, and continuous improvement of the VMI programs. This role exists to ensure the right parts are available at the right time and location to support uninterrupted production activities, while optimizing inventory levels and driving cost efficiencies.
RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and formalize the VMI programs, including policies, SOPs, and implementation roadmaps, and define success criteria, service level agreements (SLAs), and performance metrics for the VMI program.
• Collaborate with procurement, warehousing, logistics, and production to align VMI strategy with operational needs.
• Perform required research & analysis to develop an optimal scope and budgeting allocation for materials/ services
• Establish stock levels, min/max triggers, and reorder frequencies in collaboration with vendors.
• Act as the primary point of contact for VMI vendors, fostering strong partnerships.
• Monitor supplier performance and ensure compliance with agreed upon inventory strategies, conduct reviews and resolve service or delivery issues.
• Perform full life cycle supplier management activities including all pre-qualification, supplier engagement, supplier negotiations, supplier performance management.
• Ensure appropriate inventory levels are maintained by vendors based on demand forecasts, usage history, and production schedules.
• Drive inventory turns, minimize excess and obsolete stock, and ensure critical parts are always available.
• Coordinate efforts to rationalize SKUs, consolidate inventory, and support lean inventory practices
• Identify and resolve discrepancies between physical inventory and system records
• Develop and maintain dashboards and reports on program health, inventory performance, vendor KPIs, and material availability.
• Track issue resolution times, fill rates, and consumption trends.
• Monitor and improve EAC for product category and identify/ manage risks and opportunities
• Facilitate cross-functional meetings to address bottlenecks, escalate concerns, and share success stories.
• Support training and awareness sessions for frontline employees, coordinators, and leadership teams.
• Execute stakeholder management activities to ensure accurate, timely, and clear advice is provided to the business to support progress & schedule adherence
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance program efficiency, material flow, and supplier collaboration. Benchmark against industry best practices and explore technologies that could strengthen the VMI program

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's Degree in related discipline (e.g. Business, Supply Chain, Finance, Engineering)
• 5-7 years of Project Management, Supply Chain, and/or Inventory Management experience
• Professional Certifications preferred, not required (CITT, SCMP, P. Log, PMP, etc.)
• Professional knowledge of complex industrial environments and/or defence industry
• Working knowledge of Financial Management

ABOUT US
Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) has operations in Canada and the United States and are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions.
We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.
Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply.
We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.