We are currently seeking candidates for the role of Category Specialist - MRO to join our JDI Supply Chain team. The role supports the development and execution of category strategies within the Supply Chain organization, with a focus on Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) materials and services. This role is responsible for supporting strategic sourcing initiatives, supplier relationship management, contract lifecycle activities, spend analysis, and continuous improvement opportunities that drive value across the business.
In this capacity, the MRO Category Specialist collaborates closely with internal stakeholders and suppliers to support category strategies, execute competitive sourcing processes, identify cost, and risk reduction opportunities, and ensure procurement activities are completed in accordance with company policies and supply management standards.
The successful candidate will be a self-motivated professional who enjoys problem-solving, relationship building, and working in a fast-paced environment where priorities can change quickly. This is a full-time, in-person position based at our head office in Saint John, NB. The salary range for this position is between $55,000 and $75,000 annually.
- Support the development and implementation of category strategies for assigned MRO materials and service categories.
- Execute competitive sourcing initiatives including RFx development, supplier engagement, proposal evaluation, commercial analysis, and recommendation development.
- Support contract negotiations, execution, amendments, renewals, and ongoing contract administration activities.
- Build collaborative relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to support operational requirements and strategic business objectives.
- Identify opportunities to consolidate spend, standardize products and services, and improve supplier performance across business units.
- Conduct spend analysis and market research to identify sourcing opportunities, supply market trends, and total cost of ownership reduction initiatives.
- Support supplier performance management activities, including KPI development, performance reviews, issue resolution, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Support supplier innovation and value creation efforts that improve operational efficiency, reliability, and business performance.
- Maintain accurate procurement documentation, supplier records, contracts, and master data in accordance with supply management policies and procedures.
- Manage multiple priorities while responding to urgent operational and project requirements.
- Post-secondary education in Supply Chain Management, Business, Commerce, Engineering, or a related field.
- 2-5 years of experience in procurement, sourcing, category management, contract management, or supplier relationship management.
- Experience supporting sourcing initiatives, supplier negotiations, and strategic sourcing principles.
- Working knowledge of supplier relationship management and contract management activities.
- Experience conducting spend analysis and supporting cost reduction initiatives.
- Experience working in industrial, manufacturing, and maintenance environments is considered an asset.
- Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP) designation or progress toward designation is considered an asset.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
- Experience supporting maintenance-related procurement activities is considered an asset.
Irving Business Services is a vital support function within J.D. Irving, Limited, delivering expertise in essential areas such as Finance, Human Resources, Supply Chain, Health and Safety, Communications, and Legal.
By managing resources, delivering fast and flexible outcomes, and fostering innovation, Irving Business Services plays a critical role in driving operational success and supporting the company’s long-term strategic goals. With a focus on collaboration and continuous improvement, Irving Business Services offers exciting opportunities for growth and development within a leading organization.
Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) operates in Eastern Canada (New-Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Québec, Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador), as well as in USA. We are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions.
We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.
Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply.
Our recruitment advisors and hiring teams will utilize human screening combined with AI technology to help identify the skills and qualities that matter most to our business, while safeguarding your privacy and using AI responsibly.
We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
