Business Support Services jobs in Simcoe, ON

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS & SUPPLY CHAIN

About Fernlea

Fernlea is one of North America's largest greenhouse and nursery operators, with over 250 acres of production across Ontario, Canada, and Florida. We are recognized for innovation, quality and efficiency in large-scale horticulture. Our Delhi, Ontario location is seeking an experienced, results-driven Director of Operations, Logistics & Purchasing to join our senior leadership team.

The Role

Based in Delhi, Ontario, this senior leadership position oversees the Delhi greenhouse operations, including production, labour, shipping and maintenance, while providing company-wide strategic leadership for logistics and purchasing across our Ontario and Florida operations. The Director will drive operational performance, quality, cost control and continuous improvement while developing strong management teams and coordinated processes across departments and locations.

A key focus will be identifying and implementing automation, mechanization and process improvements that optimize labour, streamline operations and support long-term scalability.

Key Responsibilities — Operational Leadership

· Lead Delhi greenhouse operations, including production, labour, shipping and maintenance, to meet quality, productivity and service objectives.

· Develop operating plans, establish performance expectations and hold departmental leaders accountable for results.

· Coordinate growing, production, planning, labour, maintenance and shipping activities to meet seasonal demands.

· Identify operational risks, resolve bottlenecks and implement sustainable process improvements.

Company-Wide Logistics & Distribution

· Provide strategic oversight of logistics, freight and transportation activities across Ontario and Florida.

· Optimize transportation planning, carrier relationships, freight spending, shipment consolidation and distribution efficiency.

· Partner with sales, planning, production and shipping to support timely, accurate deliveries and customer requirements.

· Establish and monitor logistics KPIs, including freight cost, delivery accuracy and on-time performance.

Company-Wide Purchasing & Procurement

· Lead purchasing strategy and procurement practices across all company locations.

· Oversee supplier relationships, negotiations, contracts, purchasing controls and supplier performance.

· Leverage company-wide buying volumes, standardize processes and identify measurable cost savings.

· Coordinate with operational departments to ensure timely availability of materials, equipment, supplies and services.

Innovation, Automation & Continuous Improvement

· Identify, evaluate and implement automation and mechanization to reduce labour requirements and increase throughput.

· Lead continuous improvement initiatives and evaluate technology, equipment and systems for long-term scalability.

· Build business cases for capital investments and measure implementation outcomes and return on investment.

Leadership & People Development

· Coach and develop managers and supervisors; foster accountability, collaboration and respectful communication.

· Build high-performing teams through performance management, training, succession planning and clear expectations.

· Promote consistent leadership practices and effective coordination across departments and locations.

Financial Performance & Strategic Coordination

· Manage operating budgets and monitor labour, maintenance, freight and purchasing costs in partnership with finance.

· Analyze operational and financial reports, establish KPIs and recommend improvements to productivity and profitability.

· Work with senior leadership and cross-functional teams on resource planning, capital projects and growth initiatives.

· Promote safe operations and compliance with applicable workplace, transportation and operational requirements.

Qualifications

· Degree in Business Management, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Agriculture, Horticulture or related field; equivalent experience considered.

· 10 years of progressive operations management experience, including substantial people leadership responsibility.

· Demonstrated experience overseeing multiple operational functions within a large-scale complex manufacturing, or distribution environment.

· Agricultural experience is considered an asset.

· Strong knowledge of logistics, transportation, purchasing, procurement or supply chain operations.

· Proven record of process improvement, automation, mechanization and cost-reduction initiatives.

· Experience with budgets, operational reporting, financial analysis and management of managers.

· Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and operational reporting systems.

Skills & Competencies

· Strategic leadership, sound business judgment and strong financial acumen.

· Effective coaching, communication, collaboration and team-building skills.

· Analytical problem solving, accountability and a continuous improvement mindset.

· Ability to prioritize and adapt to seasonal demands and changing operational needs.

Pay: $135,000.00-$170,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental care
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• Vision care

Work Location: In person