Team Lead, Material Management

JOB DESCRIPTION
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Team Lead, Materials Management to lead a high-performing team responsible for material planning and inventory management across the supply chain. In this role, you will ensure the efficient flow and availability of materials while driving continuous improvement through data, collaboration, and strategic initiatives.
You'll work closely with cross-functional partners, mentor material management professionals, and resolve complex material availability challenges that impact production, service levels, and cost.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, coach, and mentor a team of material planning specialists.
• Provide thought leadership in service delivery, analytics, and reporting.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Material Planning & Performance Management

• Oversee material planning and inventory activities to support uninterrupted supply.
• Represent the Materials team in daily, weekly, and monthly company-level meetings, reporting on material performance and risks.
• Resolve complex material availability issues by evaluating multiple variables, identifying root causes, and determining corrective actions.
• Set supply priorities for long-lead and high-budget-impact materials.

Data, Reporting & Analytics

• Develop and maintain complex reports and key performance indicators (KPIs) to proactively identify and resolve issues.
• Ensure data integrity across all systems.
• Deliver scheduled and ad hoc reporting, including executive-level presentations.
• Conduct forward-looking capacity and materials analysis to support business planning.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Strategic Initiatives

• Partner closely with Procurement, Production, Planning, Logistics, and other stakeholders to support zero-late and zero-defect objectives.
• Lead and support material planning strategic improvement projects, ensuring delivery on time and within budget.
• Strengthen cross-functional relationships through daily collaboration and transparent communication.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Post-secondary degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related discipline
• 5+ years of relevant experience in materials planning, inventory management, or supply chain
• Previous experience in a production or manufacturing environment preferred
• Demonstrated ability to quickly adapt to new systems and technologies
• Experience working with MRP systems preferred
• Assets: APICS certification (CPIM and/or CSCP), Certification in data analytics and/or data visualization

Due to the nature of work Irving Shipbuilding does, all successful applicants must meet requirements for the Canadian Controlled Goods Program (CGP), Canadian Government Security clearance, and U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
Please note this position requires a full-time, in-office presence.
ABOUT US
Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) operates in Eastern Canada (New-Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Québec, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador), as well as in USA. We 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.
Our recruitment advisors and hiring teams will utilize human screening combined with AI technology to help identify the skills and qualities that matter most to our business, while safeguarding your privacy and using AI responsibly.
We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
ABOUT THE TEAM
Irving Shipbuilding is proud to be Canada's National Shipbuilder. Our team is constructing more than 20 modern patrol ships and destroyers for the Royal Canadian Navy and Canadian Coast Guard as part of the largest defence procurement project in Canadian history.
By joining our team of more than 2,400 shipbuilders, you can enjoy a dynamic and exciting career with a company dedicated to your success, development, and safety.
At Irving Shipbuilding, we're making history - why not make it with us? Learn more about careers at Irving Shipbuilding: shipsforcanada.ca/opportunities.
We invite applications from all qualified candidates, including racially visible persons, women in underrepresented roles, persons with disabilities, Indigenous persons, and members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and encourage applicants to self-identify.