Procurement Lead

Job Overview

Reporting to the Vice President of Operations, the Procurement Lead plays a critical role in enabling operational excellence across the Delta and Monroe business units. This position owns end-to-end procurement activities and operates within a matrix organization, partnering closely with the Category Manager to design, influence, and execute a robust procurement strategy.

The role is accountable for developing and driving a North American procurement strategy that strengthens supplier partnerships, diversifies sourcing through alternative vendors, and establishes master agreements with key suppliers to support scalability, cost optimization, and risk mitigation. In parallel, the Procurement Lead ensures day-to-day operational effectiveness by overseeing purchase order management, tracking lead times and pricing, and proactively resolving issues related to lost or damaged shipments across the organization.

This is a highly visible role that blends strategic thinking with hands-on execution, directly impacting supply continuity, cost control, and business performance.

If you excel at building strong supplier partnerships, driving measurable cost and performance improvements, and thrive at the intersection of strategy and execution in a complex operational environment, we’d love to hear from you.

In this role you

Own and lead the end-to-end purchasing function, including :

Building, strengthening, and maintaining a high-performing, reliable supplier network

Driving cost analysis, strategic sourcing initiatives, and competitive quotation processes

Placing and managing purchase orders while proactively monitoring delivery timelines and risks

Leading RMA coordination and resolving pricing discrepancies, shortages, and delivery issues

Provide leadership and oversight to a team of two purchasers, supporting development, and ensuring consistent execution.

Develop, negotiate, and manage master agreements with key vendors, while maintaining and optimizing terms with secondary suppliers.

Continuously monitor market conditions to anticipate changes in supply, demand, pricing, and product availability, and adjust sourcing strategies accordingly.

Evaluate and manage supplier performance based on cost competitiveness, quality standards, reliability, and service levels.

Research, assess, and select products to ensure optimal balance of quality, cost, and delivery performance.

Serve as a key communication hub by proactively flagging potential material delays or supply risks to all relevant stakeholders.

Ensure purchase orders are kept current and accurate, reflecting updated pricing, lead times, and delivery commitments.

Maintain thorough and accurate records related to pricing, order confirmations, contracts, and vendor performance issues.

Prepare and deliver procurement reports that support decision-making and operational planning.

Partner closely with Parts Sales and other internal teams to support business needs and ensure supply continuity.

Drive continuous improvement initiatives to streamline procurement processes, increase efficiency, and enhance overall effectiveness.

Maintain current technical and market knowledge through ongoing professional development, industry publications, and workshops.

Perform other duties as required to support operational and business objectives.

To succeed in this role, you should have :

Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in purchasing or procurement

Post-secondary education in Business or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and hands-on experience working with ERP systems

Familiarity with components used in mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and PLC-based systems is preferred

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and specifications is considered an asset

Demonstrated experience negotiating commercial terms and managing supplier and vendor agreements

Experience within the wood processing machinery or engineered wood industry is an asset

Valid driver’s license and passport required for business travel as needed

Attributes

Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated commitment to respect, professionalism, and integrity in all interactions

Highly analytical with strong numerical aptitude to support pricing analysis, quantity comparisons, cost modeling, and contract evaluation

Ability to assess market conditions, supply risk, and supplier performance to support informed procurement decisions

Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to proactively identify issues and implement effective, timely solutions

Adaptable and resilient, able to perform effectively in a fast-paced, operational environment while maintaining a positive and professional demeanor under pressure

Well-organized with strong attention to detail, capable of managing multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously

Comfortable working in a matrix organization and collaborating cross-functionally with operations, engineering, sales, and finance

Demonstrates sound judgment and discretion when handling sensitive commercial and contractual information

Willingness to continuously expand skills and knowledge through cross-training and ongoing professional development

Self-directed with the ability to take ownership of work and drive initiatives to completion

Employment requires regular, on-site presence in the office five days per week

Benefits :

Extended health benefits for you and your family, including a Health Spending Account

RRSP employer contribution matching

EV charging stations

Potential Annual bonus

Employee appreciation events

Tuition reimbursement for professional development

Paid time off

Join Our Team at Raute!

At Raute, we offer more than a job. We offer a meaningful career in an industry that makes a difference. We provide a supportive and innovative work environment where employee well-being and professional growth are priorities.

Our approach embraces a total rewards approach, which includes both monetary and non-monetary benefits. This holistic concept encompasses everything from base salary, learning and development opportunities, work-life integration, and other intangible benefits that contribute to overall employee satisfaction and engagement.

We recognize the value of work-life balance and offer flexibility through our hybrid working model. However, this role is hands-on and highly collaborative, requiring a consistent on-site presence to support in-person team engagement and operational needs. While some flexibility in hours is available, success in this position depends on active participation in office-based work and close collaboration with colleagues and stakeholders.

Join Raute – Where Innovation Meets Opportunity

At Raute, we build more than machines. We contribute to shaping the future of the Engineered Wood Products industry. We are a community of innovators, creators, and problem-solvers.

As a forward-looking technology leader and trusted partner in the Engineered Wood Product sector, we help our customers maximize raw material efficiency and support sustainable operations through data-driven innovations. With over 115 years of experience and a global presence, we are a leader in veneer, plywood, and LVL industries. Our vision is to be the partner to future-proof the wood industry. With our innovative solutions, we drive change and promote a resource-efficient society. Raute’s head office and main production are in Lahti, Finland, with additional manufacturing sites in Kajaani, Canada, and the USA.

Sustainability is at the core of everything we do. We are committed to leading the industry towards a more sustainable future in engineered wood products by creating long-term value for our customers, society, and the environment.

Our culture is built on strong values : Creating Customer Success, Promoting Development, Acting Sustainably, and Achieving Together. These values guide our daily work and describe the people who succeed at Raute. We believe that every employee has a voice and their contributions are valued. We encourage open communication and collaboration, ensuring that everyone's ideas and perspectives are heard and respected.

Join us and be part of a company that not only values your professional development but also cares about your well-being. Together, we can achieve great things and make a positive impact on the world.

Learn more about Raute at Raute.com.

Raute is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment decisions at Raute are based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. We have a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of discrimination, harassment, or unfair treatment. All employees are treated with dignity and respect, ensuring a safe and equitable workplace for everyone.