National Director of Inventory and Procurement – Wholesale Distribution

National Director of Inventory and Procurement – Wholesale Distribution

Our client is a well-respected, multi‑site national wholesale distribution organization with a strong brand, and reputation across the country as an employee‑centric organization. With years of success in the Canadian market, they pride themselves on producing and providing exceptional customer service and products to the industrial, commercial and residential contractor marketplace, while always putting their clients and employees first.

Our client is seeking a leader that will oversee the inventory strategy to ensure strong customer service, cost efficiency, and profitable growth. This role leads forecasting, purchasing, supplier relationships, and inventory optimization across all branches; while working closely with Sales, Operations, and Finance Departments to keep the supply chain aligned and data‑driven. The position focuses on improving inventory performance, reducing costs, strengthening supplier accountability, and ensuring the right products are in the right places at the right times. As a key cross‑functional leader, this role drives process improvements, technology adoption, and team development to support company‑wide financial and operational goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead companywide inventory and demand planning, including the S&OP process and ongoing forecast development.
• Align inventory strategy with sales goals, margin targets, and market trends.
• Build and manage strong supplier relationships while negotiating pricing, terms, and performance expectations.
• Benchmark and improve total acquisition costs, including product, freight, rebates, and carrying costs.
• Oversee major purchasing decisions and ensure procurement leverages scale across all locations.
• Optimize order quantities, logistics, and sourcing strategies to reduce landed cost and improve cash flow.
• Reduce excess, obsolete, and imbalanced inventory while improving stock turns and working‑capital efficiency.
• Collaborate with Sales, Operations, and Finance to improve product mix, margin quality, and branch execution.
• Standardize and enhance processes using ERP systems, planning tools, automation, and real‑time performance dashboards.
• Lead and develop the purchasing and inventory team through clear KPIs, coaching, and a high‑performance culture.

Qualifications & Experience

• Diploma/Degree in related field, such as Supply Chain, Business, or International Trade, is considered essential
• Preference given to someone that has a Supply Chain Designation (CPIM, SCMP, CCLP or CSCP)
• 5+ years of leadership experience in supply chain
• 7+ years of experience in inventory management, demand planning and procurement
• Previously worked in a fast‑paced Wholesale Distribution setting, that dealt with multiple branches across a region or national branch infrastructure
• Comfortable managing a team and experience in ‘People Management’
• Excellent written, verbal skills, with impeccable attention to detail
• Thrives in fast‑paced environments and collaborates effectively across functions.
• Show a high level of ownership, accountability, and disciplined execution.
• Bring a continuous‑improvement mindset with a commitment to learning and optimization.
• Possess deep expertise in demand planning, forecasting methods, and inventory performance improvement.
• Hold advanced analytical and financial skills, including the ability to interpret complex data.
• Skilled in ERP systems, forecasting platforms, and data‑analytics tools.
• Proven ability to negotiate effectively and manage supplier relationships strategically.
• Capable of influencing Sales, Finance, Operations, and other stakeholders to drive alignment and results.
• Salary Range of $150k – 170k annually
• Strong annual performance bonus
• RRSP Contribution Plan
• Extended Benefits + Vacation Plan

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada without sponsorship.