As part of the Keolis Grand River team responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the ION Light Rail system in the Region of Waterloo, the Manager, Strategic Sourcing & Commercial Services leads the end-to-end supply chain function, including procurement, inventory, contract management, and commercial services. This role is accountable for identifying cost-effective sourcing strategies, optimizing material availability, and ensuring supplier performance to support operational readiness. The position also plays a key role in maximizing the effectiveness of the Enterprise Asset Management System (Maximo), driving efficiency through robust data management, reporting, and system integration. Additionally, the manager oversees commercial activities such as vendor contracts, invoice approvals, and insurance claims coordination, ensuring compliance and collaboration with Legal and Finance.

Knowledge and Skills

• In-depth knowledge of supply chain best practices including sourcing, inventory management, life cycle costing, market analysis, and budgeting

• Expertise in supplier contract development, negotiation, and performance management

• Proven ability to lead process development and continuous improvement initiatives

• Strong understanding of accounting and financial principles relevant to procurement and materials

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills

• Strong interpersonal, decision-making, and stakeholder engagement abilities

• Analytical mindset with structured problem-solving skills

• High attention to detail and ability to manage competing priorities

• Capable of working both independently and collaboratively within cross-functional teams

Experience and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or equivalent experience.

• SCMP certification (asset)

• Leadership experience in a fast-paced procurement or materials management environment

• Experience in managing a team to achieve quality, cost, and scheduled targets in an operational and maintenance environment.

• Experience working with an Enterprise Asset Management System; Maximo experience preferred

• Project management experience in an operational or maintenance environment

• Experience coordinating commercial activities including insurance claims and invoice workflows

• Experience in the rail or transit industry is an asset

Key Accountabilities

Strategic Leadership & Supply Chain Planning

• Develop and implement departmental strategies, processes, and improvements aligned with operational and commercial goals
• Assess end-to-end supply chain risk and identify opportunities to mitigate exposure and improve resilience

Procurement and Materials Management

• Develop and enforce Keolis procurement policies and procedures
• Lead the development of sourcing strategies to deliver cost savings, quality improvements, and service enhancements
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand acquisition needs and timelines
• Support the development and management of the materials budget
• Oversee warehouse and receiving functions, ensuring sound inventory control practices
• Establish safety stock strategies and sourcing agreements to ensure operational availability

Contract & Commercial Management

• Develop standard contract templates and draft agreements for key products and services
• Lead RFIs, RFQs, and RFPs in coordination with stakeholders, defining negotiation strategies and outcomes
• Conduct vendor negotiations to optimize value and minimize organizational risk
• Monitor active contracts, enforce supplier performance, address commercial issues
• Coordinate with Legal and Finance to oversee insurance claims and invoice approvals

Enterprise Asset Management System

• Maintain robust reporting and structure utilizing Maximo Administration, Ensure accurate reporting structures and data integrity to support decision-making

Team Leadership & Performance Management

• Manage and coach the Supply Chain team, including the Materials Supervisor, Materials Specialist, and Procurement Specialist

• Define and monitor team KPIs; prepare reports and present insights to senior leadership

• Ensure the team adheres to company safety, quality, and compliance expectations

• Lead training and development initiatives to build team capability and alignment with business needs

• Perform additional duties as assigned

Working Hours

• Based-upon an average of 40 hours per week normally day shift
• May have an occasional requirement to cover shifts including weekends to liaise with staff and contractors (if required)