Vice President, Operations

Join the Magic

Our Mission

At Puratos, we create innovative food solutions for the health and well-being of people everywhere. As the global leader in bakery, patisserie and chocolate ingredients, we help our customers to be successful with their business, by turning technologies and experiences from food cultures around the world into new opportunities.

We are more than 10.000 employees in over 70 countries and a consolidated turnover of 3.1 billion euros (in 2023). Our passion for innovation, a pioneering spirit and the unique Puratos culture drive our solid growth and vision for the future This, along with our commitment to our local communities, is what makes working at Puratos so magical.

To strengthen our team in Canada, we are looking for:

Vice President, Operations

(Mississauga, Ontario, Canada)

Your Mission

Reporting directly to President of Puratos Canada, you will be responsible for the Operations team in Puratos Canada, leading Production, Quality, Supply Chain, Logistics, HSE and Continuous Improvement teams. As a result of our rapid growth, you will play an important role in

• leading the strategic operations for Canadian business, and
• creating a vision that maintains the utmost level of safety, drives efficiency, optimizes processes, generates a standard of excellence and is strategically aligned across the organization.

What you will do

• Create and communicate a clear vision for operations within Canada.
• Lead the development and implementation of short- and long-term business strategies designed to meet agreed operations goals.
• Create a safe environment with zero accidents
• Direct the manufacturing of products at the lowest cost consistent with established specifications while maintaining quality, reducing costs and attaining all customer service objectives and Company requirements.
• Develop, implement and direct logistical and distribution procedures, policies and practices to ensure that materials are transported and inventoried in the most effective, economical manner for optimum supply assurance.
• Lead and foster collaboration across all operational disciplines (demand and production planning, procurement, production, quality assurance, safety, maintenance, logistics & supply chain) across sites. Ensure these are aligned with business requirements and Group Operations strategy.
• Responsible for the preparation of all capital investment projects and equipment, expense budgets and the maintenance and coordination of these financial estimates and plans. Direct the selection, and installation of equipment necessary to maintain facilities in a competitive position, as well as having ultimate responsibility for cost reduction and control programs while maintaining full utilization of manufacturing capacities.
• Responsible for ensuring that GMP’s, quality initiatives and safe working conditions are present at all times. Ensure various governmental, food safety and other required standard certifications are adhered to at all times.
• Develop financial budgets and conduct ongoing analysis to ensure brand business performance is maximized.
• Ensure that effective systems, procedures and financial controls are established within the functional areas of manufacturing, warehousing and distribution.
• Ensure an effective S&OP (Sales and Operations Planning) process is implemented, according to Canada´s strategy, adopting and embedding industry and Group best practices.
• Along with other stakeholders, ensure opportunities for automation or equipment enhancements are identified.
• Drive Operational Excellence in a culture of Continuous Improvement and Right First-Time behaviors throughout the business.
• Ensures the right skills, capabilities and mindset are present at all times in the Operations, through establishing the appropriate training and development programs, as well as the appropriate work environment and leadership style.

What we expect from you

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Business Administration or a related field is required (Master’s preferred).
• Proven and demonstrated experience (typically 10+ years) in an operations leadership role (strong preference to food processing, bakery manufacturing and/or multi plant responsibility) with at least 5 years that included designing strategy, executing the vision and building strong team collaboration.
• Strong analytical skills and data-driven decision-making abilities
• Experience and accomplishments in good manufacturing, logistics, supply chain, quality and procurement best practices is essential. Due to the complexity of scope and requirements with this position, some large company experience is necessary.
• Strong computer skills (advanced Word, Excel and Power Point) with the ability to quickly grasp new software. Must be experienced in working with SAP or and/or supply chain/procurement management software systems, etc.
• Certification in Lean Six Sigma (Green/Black Belt) and experience with lean principles preferred.
• Experience dealing with unionized and non-unionized workforce
• Exceptional written and verbal communication as well as negotiations, decision-making, problem solving & presentation skills.
• Readily able to multi-task, take charge and make things move quickly working in sometimes ambiguous and unstructured circumstances
• Ensuring a robust set of KPIs are created and maintained that provide insights to operational effectiveness.
• A natural charismatic leader/self-starter and change driver who uses a collaborative, team-oriented style approach to getting things accomplished.
• Able to educate, motivate and inspire others (at all levels in organization).
• Strategically oriented, the individual should demonstrate strong business acumen and exhibit an in-depth understanding of all key operational areas.
• Known for understanding and adding value to high-level management interactions with a proven ability to develop and sell key operational business strategies.
• Possesses excellent organizational, planning, influence, presentation and follow-up skills including a "can do" attitude, and a high sense of urgency.
• Self-motivated and must be persuasive in presenting ideas and managing their implementation
• Able to travel both domestically and internationally up to 30% of the year and committed to onsite attendance as required. Hybrid work up to a maximum of 2 days per week is available if suitable to position responsibilities.

What you can expect from Puratos

About Our Work Environment: We foster a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive workplace where every team member’s contributions are valued. Puratos believes and actively practices a People First culture (our “Calling for Caring”) which includes encouraging professional growth.

Hybrid Work Model: We recognize the importance of flexibility. As part of our commitment to employee well-being, we offer a hybrid work arrangement. You’ll have the opportunity to work remotely up to two days per week, while also enjoying the benefits of in-person collaboration.

We are a warm family company with a historical growth track record and a clear long-term vision for the future. We promote a caring, trustful and respecting work environment by putting people first.

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