Job Description / Duties

• Developing and introducing a comprehensive strategic function and approach to sourcing of the MEC Brand
• Implementing and sustaining a working structure and process that enables strategic sourcing: data analytics, negotiations, decision making, placement, research and reporting
• Working with cross functional business units and teams to identify and understand both current and forward business requirements and needs
• Searching for, reviewing and selecting appropriate manufacturers to support existing and future requirements
• Negotiating and managing new and onward business relationships and performance with suppliers
• Leading vendor negotiations regarding seasonal program placements, timelines, cost, volume
• Continually analyzing the external market: emerging trends, challenges, issues, competition
• Constantly reviewing the business, driving and informing continuous improvement priorities including providing case for necessary resources, tools, systems at a departmental and an organizationally integrated level
• Facilitating, managing and influencing business improvement and change

Qualifications / Required Skills

•University Degree in a related discipline i.e. Business Management, International Business, Economics
•10-15 years related experience in sourcing, supply chain, operations management
•Ability to assimilate, review and interpret complex multi-stakeholder information and needs into a coherent strategy and plan
•Adept in gathering & analyzing data and detail to identify opportunities, improvements, cost savings, risks
•Demonstrated leadership in strategic thinking, program creation and development, change management, negotiation and facilitation, analytical and planning skills, effective decision making, systems thinking, customer-vendor relations
•Comprehensive knowledge of manufacturing. Experience in outdoor apparel and products as well as retail complexities, an asset
•Working knowledge of financial principles and analysis, budgeting, forecasting and projections
•Well-versed in legislation and compliance
•High level of integrity, self-motivation, results orientation
•Exceptional communication skills, verbal and written.
•Effective time management, project management, and organization skills
•Proven ability to manage multiple stakeholder requirements and inputs, and work effectively leading and influencing cross functional teams
•Travel up to 8 weeks per year
•Leading an active lifestyle

Additional Information

Salary: to be negotiated

Contact Information

PLEASE NOTE: Interested candidates are asked to apply on our website only. Please visit http://www.mec.ca/jobs to set up a profile, apply for this position or browse through current job postings at MEC. Only applications received through our website will be considered. We thank all applicants for their time and interest in MEC, but will only contact those selected for an interview. Deadline to apply is December 3, 2012.

Employer Profile

Mountain Equipment Co-op (mec.ca) is Canada’s leading retailer of clothing, gear, and services for active lifestyles, including cycling, running, hiking, camping, climbing, canoeing and kayaking, yoga and fitness. Established in 1971, MEC has close to 3.8 million members throughout Canada whom it serves through 16 stores in six provinces as well as online at mec.ca. Widely recognized for its commitment to sustainability, MEC is a member of 1% For The Planet and supports various outdoor recreation and environmental initiatives through its community grants program.