Manager, Warehouse Operations & Operational Excellence

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (DHC) is a storied name in the aerospace industry, recognized worldwide for its pioneering contributions to aviation and its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and reliability. Headquartered in Calgary, AB, DHC currently has approximately 2,400 employees across British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, as well as in markets and distribution hubs world-wide.

Established in 1928, De Havilland Canada has a rich history marked by the development of some of the most iconic and versatile aircraft ever built. These aircraft have served a variety of roles - from bush flying to commercial aviation - and are celebrated for their rugged durability, operational versatility, and excellence in performance.

Over the decades, De Havilland Canada has evolved to meet the changing needs of the aviation industry. Today, we are more than just an aircraft manufacturer; we are a comprehensive aerospace company with capabilities that span design, production, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Our operations are supported by a team of skilled engineers, technicians, and industry professionals who are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship and innovation.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Director, Supply Chain, the Manager, Warehouse Operations & Operational Excellence is responsible for managing and directing all material teams and functions supporting Manufacturing and operations. This role will be accountable for inventory accuracy, optimization, transactions in DHC's ERP, and warehouse layout including space optimization and design. The role will liaise closely with key stakeholders across all aspects of De Havilland's business units.

Tasks and Responsibilities

• Oversee Materials Management processes and space optimization at all YYC / YYJ / Offsite Manufacturing/MRO sites.
• Direct and lead all warehouse personnel to ensure training compliance, management activities, interviewing, hiring, training, payroll, evaluations/promoting performance improvement through employee development plans, vacation scheduling, etc.
• Manage staffing levels and forecasting.
• Set up new warehouse operations and recruit personnel to support Manufacturing/MRO operations.
• Develop warehouse optimization programs focused on locations, space utilization, and costs.
• Lead the team in effective material flow activities including receiving, stocking, picking, issuing, dispatching, and shipping. This includes a customer-driven focus and ease of execution of transaction materials.
• Ensure all incoming and outgoing products received or shipped are processed in accordance with policies and procedures defined in the standards manual.
• Develop process improvements.
• Oversee inventory counts and implement cycle counting processes that drive continuous improvement of inventory accuracy through root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Develop warehouse optimization programs focused on locations, space utilization, and costs.
• Be responsible for warehouse safety, supporting and promoting a safety-first work environment, and conducting safety and housekeeping audits.
• Lead implementation of Lean best practices related to Materials Management.
• Develop Lean programs focused on simplification, waste elimination, and value-added activities.
• Establish strong, consistent linkages with supply chain and service organizations.
• Manage business reporting.
• Manage budget input.
• Provide monthly/quarterly updates on all key aspects of the responsibilities defined above.

Education & Experience

• 10+ years of warehouse and materials management experience, including logistics and supply chain experience in aviation.
• Understanding of contemporary Lean manufacturing principles and practices.
• Experience working in a Lean / ISO 9000 environment.

Additional Education & Experience

• Experience with value stream mapping, continuous improvement, and root cause analysis.
• Experience leading people with demonstrated team-building skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships and work effectively with people at all organizational levels.
• 10+ years of experience working with formal ERP/MRP systems.

Skills

• Willingness to adapt to changing business culture and corporate objectives.
• Ability to build effective relationships and interact with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving, negotiating, and influencing skills to resolve complex issues with stakeholders.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with high attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to lead a team through change, as well as to promote personal and professional development among subordinates.

Physical & Travel Requirements

• The physical requirements for the Manager, Warehouse Operations & Operational Excellence position include visual, hearing, and speaking abilities; and the ability to sit, stand, and walk for long periods of time.
• Travel will be required periodically.

Why work at De Havilland?

De Havilland Canada is a Canadian-owned and operated aircraft manufacturer dedicated to providing rewarding opportunities in a diverse and welcoming workplace.

• Work with a team that makes a true difference in the world-making it possible for people to travel around the globe efficiently, comfortably and safely.
• We’ve manufactured over 5,600 aircraft including the most advanced turboprop in the air today. Our experience and expertise in constructing the highest performing aircraft in the industry is second to none.
• Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities are dynamic workplaces led by teams that support and encourage all employees.
• With a passionate team of innovators and a global network of support, De Havilland Canada proudly carries on it’s tradition as a leader in aerospace.

In addition to plenty of opportunities for career growth in a stimulating work environment, De Havilland Canada offers:

• Competitive wages
• Paid vacation
• Extended health benefits (medical, dental, vision, paramedical)
• Life insurance
• RRSP/DPSP Plan
• Employee and family assistance program

At De Havilland Aircraft of Canada (DHC), we are committed to protecting our people, customers, shareholders and the public through Health & Safety Excellence. As such, it is expected that all employees maintain strict adherence to Health & Safety Policies and to perform key physical tasks of the position described in the job description and interview process. This may include but is not limited to the ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions including temperature extremes, confined spaces, working at heights and with or around chemicals. Employees are expected to adhere to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when at work which must include but is not limited to the ability to maintain a positive fit test when mask use is required.

At De Havilland Canada, we aim to be inclusive and diverse and provide equal opportunity for employment. All qualified applicants, regardless of gender, age, race, religion, sexual orientation, and disability, are encouraged to apply. De Havilland will accommodate the needs of applicants with disabilities throughout all stages of the selection process. If you need accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise your Talent Acquisition representative. Information relating to the need for accommodation and accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.

Any offer of employment is conditional on the completion of positive and satisfactory background checks, which may include, proof that you are legally entitled to work in Canada, professional references, verification of employment history, verification of educational background and criminal background checks.