Senior Logistics Manager (Head of Logistics)

Our client, a leading Food & Beverage Company, located in Kitchener, ON is looking to hire a Senior Logistics Manager (Head of Logistics) on a permanent, full-time basis.

Reporting into the Director of Supply Chain, leading a team of 6 direct reports, the Senior Logistics Manager (Head of Logistics) will be responsible for the direct management and handling of all warehousing, distribution and transportation functions across the country with the organization’s third party contracted vendors. This will include; accountability for inbound and outbound serviceability of all orders, developing distribution plans, inventory control, inbound and outbound transportation of products, budget management, managing supplier relationships and tracking of key KPIs.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Service and delivery

• Ensure on-time, in-full delivery to customers and consumers against agreed service levels.
• Lead stock management and inventory auditing across all storage locations in the market.
• Oversee day-to-day distribution and transportation planning.
• Support cross-functional projects such as new product launches, tendering, route-to-market changes, peak season readiness, and long-term logistics planning.
• Monitor logistics performance, identify issues, and drive corrective actions in partnership with customer supply chain teams.

Cost and budget

• Manage warehouse, transport, and distribution budgets in line with strategy and targets.
• Lead annual resource planning, including staffing and equipment needs.
• Track spend, review performance regularly, and ensure operations stay within budget.
• Ensure accurate inventory management and reconciliation across all company-owned and third party inventory.

Quality and improvement

• Drive continuous improvement and implement best practices to strengthen logistics performance.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, quality, service, and operational excellence standards.
• Support contract management, tendering, and negotiations with logistics providers in partnership with procurement.
• Share best practices across markets to support consistency and continuous improvement.
• Ensure adherence to company processes, policies, and operating standards.

People and leadership

• Lead the market logistics team, including hiring, development, training, and performance management.
• Build a high-performing, multi-skilled team culture focused on operational excellence.
• Work closely with other functions to deliver strong cross-functional results and a “one team” approach.

EDUCATION:

• Post secondary degree or diploma in Logistics, Supply Chain, or equivalent,
• CITT(CCLP), PLOG, OR CSCMP an asset.

SUCCESS FACTORS:

• Strong Analytics as related to KPIs.
• Management of Vendor Relationships.
• Quality Mindset.

REQUIREMENTS:

• 8 years’ progressive Supply Chain experience with 5+ years of experience in Logistics, Warehousing, and Distribution.
• 5+ years of management experience.
• Experience in the food or beverage industry an asset.
• Strong understanding of systems and processes related to transportation and warehousing. Experience using TMS/ WMS.
• Knowledge and experience with an ERP system such as SAP.
• Intermediate to advanced computer skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.

ADDITIONAL SKILLS:

• Strong business acumen with a focus on delivering results.
• Strong skillset and background in data analysis.
• Skilled negotiator, with previous experience in negotiating rates and contracts.
• Strong customer service skills and mindset.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proactive and ability to work independently and in cross functional teams.
• Flexible with changes in priorities based on business needs.
• Clear communication with senior leadership.
• Strong people management and development skills.

COMPENSATION:

• Base salary of $135K - $155K, commensurate with experience.