Manager of Milk Procurement and Governmental Affairs

at  Saputo Inc

At Saputo, our best comes from our people. We’re a talented and caring team with a longstanding history of excellence. Since our first days delivering cheese on a bicycle, we’ve grown into a leading global dairy processor by staying true to the culture that defines us. Each of our employees is committed to uphold our tradition of care, quality, and passion through food, and together, we foster an environment where we can all make contributions that matter–from our manufacturing plants to our office locations and everywhere in-between.
Overview of the Role
The Manager of Milk Procurement and Governmental Affairs reports to the SVP Government Affairs and will be responsible for sourcing and procuring high-quality milk to meet the company’s production needs while ensuring compliance with governmental regulations and industry standards. This role involves building and maintaining relationships with milk suppliers, negotiating contracts, and liaising with government bodies to advocate for the company’s interests in regulatory matters. The ideal candidate will have an understanding of Canadian milk procurement rules and agricultural policies as well as excellent negotiation and communication skills.
*Salary ranges from $ 88 325 to $115 930
offers will vary commensurate with experience, education, skills, and training.**
How you will make contributions that matter:

Milk Procurement:

• Develop and implement strategies to secure a consistent supply of high-quality milk.
• Identify and establish relationships with milk marketing boards, industry associations and regulating bodies.
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and terms with suppliers to ensure cost-effective procurement.
• Coordinate with operations and quality assurance teams to ensure milk supply quality standards are met by regulated milk marketing boards.

• Analyze market trends and adjust procurement strategies accordingly.

  Supplier Relationship Management:

• Maintain strong relationships with existing suppliers and foster new partnerships.

• Address and resolve any issues or disputes with suppliers promptly.

  Governmental Affairs:

• Stay informed about local, state, and federal regulations affecting the dairy industry.

• Develop and maintain relationships with key government officials and industry stakeholders.
• Represent the company in regulatory discussions, hearings, and industry forums.
• Advocate for the company’s interests in regulatory and policy matters.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations related to milk procurement.

Strategic Planning and Reporting:

• Develop and execute long-term procurement strategies aligned with the company’s goals.
• Provide regular reports on procurement activities, market conditions, and governmental affairs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align procurement strategies with overall business objectives.

You are best suited for the role if you have the following qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Business Administration, Political Science, Communications or a related field.
• Experience in milk procurement, agricultural/ dairy policy analysis is an asset.
• Strong knowledge of the dairy industry, including market trends and regulatory environment.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to analyze data and market trends to inform procurement decisions.
• Experience in governmental relations and regulatory compliance is highly desirable.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Proficiency in relevant software and tools (e.g., procurement software, Microsoft Office Suite).
• Bilingualism (French and English) spoken and written is essential as the candidate will have to work closely with teams located across Canada
• This position requires travel to meet with suppliers, attend industry meeting and events, and to meet with government officials. (expected 15-30%) with an emphasis on flexibility on work life balance.

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Business Administration, Political Science, Communications or a related field.
• Experience in milk procurement, agricultural/ dairy policy analysis is an asset.
• Strong knowledge of the dairy industry, including market trends and regulatory environment.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to analyze data and market trends to inform procurement decisions.
• Experience in governmental relations and regulatory compliance is highly desirable.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Proficiency in relevant software and tools (e.g., procurement software, Microsoft Office Suite).
• Bilingualism (French and English) spoken and written is essential as the candidate will have to work closely with teams located across Canada
• This position requires travel to meet with suppliers, attend industry meeting and events, and to meet with government officials. (expected 15-30%) with an emphasis on flexibility on work life balance