Director of Operations, Research and Development

at  Guardian Chemicals Inc

BETTER CHEMISTRY FOR A BETTER FUTURE.

We believe that we can create a better future for our communities, customers, and employees by doing chemistry better. When we create safer, more efficient, more environmentally responsible chemistry and apply it using the best people and technology available we can make a huge impact.
With over 60 years of research & development driven progress in specialty chemistry, Guardian Chemicals has worked hard to earn our reputation as a leader in the space. Our team, unified through their shared vision and core values, work together to support our customers and the industries they serve to drive a cleaner, safer, and more efficient industry forward.
Based in Sturgeon County, Alberta, Guardian provides direct chemical, equipment, and specialized service technologists to a large variety of primary and secondary industries throughout Canada, the USA, and internationally. Guardian currently has three main divisions: industrial, water treatment, and wood products.

Our Core Values

• Seek Understanding – Ask, listen, absorb
• Growth Mindset – Always looking to develop
• Initiative – Take the first step, go beyond
• Grit – Perseverance through determination
• Courage – Try what scares you, trust those around you, say what matters
• Elevate Others – Create heroes in those around you

PURPOSE

As Director of Operations, Research and Development, you will lead the company’s operational strategy to achieve excellence by promoting a culture centered on quality, safety, innovation, and efficiency. In this role, you will lead a collaborative, multi-disciplinary team integrating Quality, Health & Safety, Laboratory, Product Development, Procurement, and Production departments.
You will ensure that quality systems support organizational goals and drive value for customers, overseeing quality-driven production, manufacturing, and storage processes across all company, subsidiary, and third-party facilities, and ensure procurement drives strategic value to the organization. As a leader, you will foster future leaders within Operations group and support the company’s vision through strategic planning and accountable team management.

WHAT WILL YOU DO

As part of your duties, you will:

• Develop and implement strategic plans and objectives aligned with the company’s goals, fostering innovation in product development to ensure alignment with market trends and consumer needs.
• Oversee day-to-day operations of assigned departments, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness
• Develop and manage budgets to optimize resource allocation and financial health; keep expenses and operational costs within budgeted parameters and drive cost savings where possible
• Create and maintain key performance indicators for the group
• Ensure processes follow best practices suitable for the organization’s size and scale.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and industry norms; oversee quality assurance processes to ensure product consistency and reliability; and be accountable for audit certifications and re-certifications.
• Foster a culture of safety by ensuring adherence to health and safety guidelines and regulations; oversee the identification and mitigation of risks in operations and processes.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team; foster a collaborative and inclusive working environment that promotes knowledge sharing and synergy across departments; build and foster a culture aligned with the company’s core values; and drive accountability throughout the operations team to ensure it supports all company functions, considering key stakeholders.
• Provide leadership in deriving value from the ERP (Sage X3) and serve as a strong technical resource for the team.

What you will bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field; Master’s degree or MBA preferred
• Minimum of 10-12 years of experience in the chemical research and manufacturing industry with at least 5-7 years in a leadership role
• Proven track record of managing multidisciplinary teams and successfully leading complex projects
• Exceptional leadership and team management skills
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• Proficiency in project management and operational oversight
• Relevant certifications in chemical management, quality assurance, or safety management will be an asset
• Demonstrated ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• High ethical standards and a commitment to fostering a culture of integrity and inclusivity within the organization

At Guardian Chemicals, We Believe Diversity & Inclusion Drive Innovation

• We are committed to the celebration of cultural differences, personal and professional values, and how these contribute to our culture and the communities we serve.
• We understand that everyone has strengths, and we embrace those strengths.
• We nurture the growth of each of our employees and empower our teams to support our core values.
• We are a proud participant of the 50 – 30 Challenge - an initiative specializing in the recruitment of a diverse and inclusive workforce.
• We believe a diverse and inclusive work force is essential.