Richardson Executive Search Looking for Executive Vice President of Operations at Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Full Time

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, OPERATIONS

THE OPPORTUNITY

We have an exciting opportunity to join a leading global parcel, freight, warehouse, and logistics company in a national executive position. Operating in over 40 countries and heavily invested to grow their already strong presence in North America, the Executive Vice President, Operations will be responsible for overseeing various business leaders within the organization, as well as assist in the process of scaling and growing the business. The ideal candidate will be a strategic leader and have the ability to work across all areas of the company.

Reporting directly to both the Chief Parcel Officer and Chief Freight Officer, the Executive Vice President of Operations will play a pivotal role in the develop of the client’s e-commerce network while at the same time, driving operational excellence across our diverse divisions and provinces. This is a high-level leadership position that requires a strategic mindset, a deep understanding of the courier and LTL industry, and a track record of successfully managing complex operational environments. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the seamless execution of our operational activities, optimizing processes, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and delivering exceptional customer service.

GLS is committed to accelerated growth across the Canadian marketplace. To compliment the network offering, GLS Canada has completed 2 strategic acquisitions over the course of the past 2 years, the team is now working to integrate these 3 regional powerhouses into one highly efficient operating brand. The Executive Vice President of Operations will play a significant role in choreographing the symmetry between the business units.

Please note this position can be based in either Edmonton, Montreal, Toronto or Winnipeg.

THE ORGANIZATION

GLS Logistics Systems Canada Ltd. Is recognized as one of the preeminent transportation and supply chain services in the country. With 65 terminals tactically located in each Province, GLS offers parcel, LTL, warehousing and logistics services to the market and through the combined parcel and freight networks, GLS offers direct service coverage to 93% of the Canadian population.

General Logistics Systems (GLS) is a wholly owned subsidiary of International Distribution Service, a publicly listed company trading on the London stock exchange.

For more information, please visit our business units at www.gls-canada.com www.rosenau.ca www.altimaxcourier.com.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and execute a comprehensive operational strategy aligned with the company’s overall business goals and integration objectives.
• Optimize the operating network which would include a comprehensive review of terminal locations as well as the introduction of automated sorting facilities.
• Lead and direct a team of senior managers, fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture within the operations department.
• Ensure the efficient utilization of resources, including labor, equipment, and technology, to maximize productivity and minimize costs.
• Oversee the end-to-end supply chain, including inbound and outbound logistics, transportation, warehousing, and distribution, to meet customer requirements and service level agreements.
• Implement robust performance tracking mechanisms, regularly analyzing key operational metrics, and taking proactive measures to address any deviations or areas of improvement.
• Implement and maintain quality control processes to ensure the highest standards of service delivery and customer satisfaction.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to streamline processes, enhance operational efficiency, and reduce waste.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including sales, customer service, IT, and finance, to ensure seamless coordination and alignment of operational activities.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, such as vendors, partners, and regulatory agencies, to optimize operational effectiveness.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in logistics and supply chain management, leveraging them to drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge.
• Manage the operational budget, optimizing resource allocation, monitoring expenses, and ensuring financial targets are met.
• Ensure regulatory compliance across all operational activities, including adherence to transportation laws, industry regulations, and safety standards.
• Collaborate with key vendors and partners to ensure seamless integration and coordination of services, negotiating contracts, and maintaining strong business relationships.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging innovation, and championing initiatives that enhance operational effectiveness, cost efficiency, and customer satisfaction.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in business, operations management, logistics, or a related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in logistics or supply chain management, including at least 5 years in an executive-level position, ideally having experience in both parcel and LTL environments.
• A comprehensive understanding of automated and manual material handling systems.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale logistics operations in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• Strong strategic thinking and business acumen, with the ability to align operational initiatives with broader organizational goals.
• Strong knowledge of P&D and linehaul operations, including freight management, warehousing, distribution, and transportation technologies.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams to achieve exceptional results.
• Demonstrated experience in driving operational excellence, process improvement, and cost optimization.
• Exceptional problem-solving, decision-making, and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong financial acumen, with the ability to analyze financial data and make data-driven decisions.
• Bilingual (French) would be an asset.

TRAVEL

Willingness to travel up to 40%, both locally, nationally, and internationally as required.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT

Sandy Jacobson | Vice President | T: 780.944.1327 | E: sandy.jacobson@richardsonsearch.ca | www.richardsonsearch.ca