Senior Manager, Co-Manufacturing

Saje Natural Wellness•Toronto, ON

11d•CA$110,000 - CA$120,000•Hybrid

About The Position

At Saje Natural Wellness, we're nature's original farmacy, blending the superpower of plants so you can remedy real life, naturally. And like nature, we're continually growing! As we continue to build our team, we're seeking talented people to join us: in our stores, support offices, and distribution centres. We are a purpose-driven, people-first organization where collaboration, innovation and entrepreneurial mindsets thrive. We look for individuals who have drive and warmth, agility and passion, and keep customer experience at the centre of everything they do. At Saje, you’ll connect with a dynamic community and make a positive impact. Join our team and grow your career, alongside the most talented, hard working, and kind-hearted people out there. Reporting to the Director, Supply Chain Planning, the Senior Manager, Co-Manufacturing is responsible for the strategic sourcing and oversight of our co-manufacturing facilities, ensuring the mix, location, service, and quality of co-manufacturing meet the overall needs of Saje Operations. This person will source and evaluate new suppliers, conduct meetings, manage and negotiate supplier/manufacturing agreements, and ensure cost-effective, high-quality products. As part of the Supply Chain Planning team, the Senior Manager, Co-Manufacturing will work collaboratively with the Supply Planning Team to coordinate, plan, and champion all co-manufacturing-related activities for finished goods production, while maintaining positive relationships, driving cost reductions, and ensuring on-time deliveries. All Saje Team Members are responsible for contributing to Saje’s culture and maintaining a positive environment for themselves and their peers.

Requirements

7–10+ years of progressive experience in supply chain, sourcing, procurement, or co-manufacturing, with demonstrated experience managing external manufacturing partners
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess supplier capabilities, identify risks, and drive cost optimization opportunities
Proven experience negotiating supplier and manufacturing agreements, including pricing, service levels, quality standards, and capacity commitments
Strong background in vendor sourcing, onboarding, and performance management, including audit processes and continuous improvement initiatives
Experience working with co-manufacturers or contract manufacturers within CPG, retail, wellness, or similar industries is strongly preferred
Demonstrated ability to develop and manage supplier scorecards, KPIs, and performance review processes
Strong cross-functional leadership skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with Supply Planning, Quality, R&D, Finance, and Operations teams
Proven people leadership experience, including coaching, mentoring, and developing team members
Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence and build trust at all levels, both internally and externally
High level of attention to detail with a focus on quality, compliance, and operational excellence
Experience managing inventory processes, including cycle counts, audits, and reconciliation with external partners
Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to represent the organization professionally with external partners
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, evolving environment
Demonstrates advanced Excel capability and confidently leverages ERP systems (e.g., Dynamics AX), procurement tools, and data analytics platforms to drive decision-making and execution
A bachelor’s degree in business administration, supply chain management, or a related field is required

Nice To Haves

advanced degrees or relevant professional certifications (e.g., SCMP, CPIM) are considered an asset

Responsibilities

Strategically identify and qualify reliable suppliers for co-manufacturing based on size, strength, and geography to meet short-term and long-term business objectives
Select vendors to ensure the business receives the greatest value from its goods and services
Initiate qualification audits to onboard new vendors
Audit existing vendors annually - identify areas for improvement and work with vendors to take corrective actions as needed
Ensure new co-manufacturers meet R&D and Quality specifications, as well as capacity, lead time and cost requirements
Manage all co-manufacturer relationships
Establish and maintain strong relationships with co-manufacturers to ensure the provision of quality goods, delivered on time and at target costs
Ensure all manufacturers have current contracts that cover pricing, quality, and supply requirements
Represent Saje with co-manufacturers, ensuring the successful execution of new R&D projects, quality program improvements, supply lead times, and costs
Develop strong relationships with stakeholders and cross-functional teams
Create an environment of safety, trust, respect, and accountability; collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve common goals
Work with cross-functional teams to develop, implement and monitor key KPIs
Ensure quarterly reviews and follow-up on corrective actions with co-manufacturers; share annual scorecards with Saje Leadership
Lead annual and biannual inventory counts in partnership with the Saje Finance lead and co-manufacturers to ensure successful audit completion
Establish and maintain ongoing cycle counts and inventory accuracy at co-manufacturing sites
Lead the Co-Manufacturing Procurement Team, including day-to-day people management, coaching, and mentoring; identify and implement process improvement opportunities

Benefits

A hybrid way of working
Flexible work hours based on business needs
Wellness days to ensure you're taking care of your mental and physical health
Health benefits - comprehensive health, vision and dental packages
Paid sick days
Generous product discount
Full onboarding plan and onboarding buddy to help you settle in
Employee Assistance Program - 24/7 support, resources, and information available to you and your family
Paid time off to ensure you're resting & recharging
Product training to help you learn about the benefits and efficacy of our 100% natural products to support your own wellness journey