Veterinary Purchasing Co. Ltd. (VP)is the largest veterinary-owned distributor in Canada. Located in St. Marys, Ontario, our primary purpose is to ensure that veterinarians have the supplies they need, when they need it, to provide healthcare to all types of animals. We are looking for new members to join our Procurement team in the Procurement Manager role. Be a part of the supply chain industry and join VP!
Procurement Manager
The Procurement Manager will lead, plan, and direct the activities of the Purchasing Department to ensure optimal inventory levels, develop strategic relationships with key suppliers, and the securing of competitive pricing. This role will drive strategic sourcing initiatives, aiding RFP processes, and collaborating with key stakeholders to align procurement strategies with organizational goals. The Manager will also strengthen relationships with key external contacts, manage procurement strategy, and lead the continuous development of the purchasing team to ensure operational excellence.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Lead, mentor, and develop the procurement team, ensuring the consistent application of best practices, performance standards, and professional growth.
- Foster a collaborative environment that encourages innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement within the team.
- Oversee the full procurement lifecycle, including strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, purchasing, and delivery of both inventoried and non-inventoried items.
- Ensure robust vendor selection, conducting in-depth assessments, evaluations, and risk analysis to secure optimal partnerships with both direct and indirect suppliers.
- Lead contract negotiations, ensuring favorable terms for the organization while managing risk and adhering to legal and compliance standards.
- Support the RFP processes, ensuring transparency, competitive pricing, and value-added outcomes in collaboration with key internal stakeholders.
- Oversee the timely review, execution, and renewal of distribution agreements and ensure that return policies and terms are clear, consistent, and aligned with VPCL’s operational standards.
- Ensure all contractual obligations are fulfilled by both the company and suppliers, minimizing risks and resolving any disputes as necessary.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, ensuring consistent performance, quality, and cost management.
- Collaborate with internal teams (e.g., Operations, Finance, Business Intelligence, Customer Experience) to ensure efficient inventory management, accurate product receipt, and timely stocking.
- Develop and execute comprehensive supplier engagement strategies to drive long-term value, optimize supplier performance, and resolve any supplier-related issues.
- Lead regular supplier business reviews, maintaining open communication and fostering continuous improvement, innovation, and collaboration with the top tier suppliers.
- Develop and implement procurement policies, best practices, and strategies that align with organizational goals, while continuously monitoring and optimizing procurement processes. Identify opportunities for efficiency, cost savings, and process improvements to enhance overall procurement activities.
- Ensure relevant sales data and performance reporting offerings are readily available to suppliers in collaboration with other departments.
- Monitor and analyze supplier and product specific performance. Utilize performance metrics to drive VPCL decisions (i.e. adding or discontinuing products)
- Manage and resolve any operational issues related to supplier deliveries, product quality, or inventory discrepancies.
- Understand and follow all applicable Standard Operating Procedures as required.
- Other duties as assigned.
Health & Safety:
- Works in compliance with the Occupational Health & Safety Act and follows VP’s policies and procedures
- Conducts self with regard for the safety of all employees
- Participates in health and safety training, meetings, and drills as required; is aware of safety and evacuation procedures
- Reports any health & safety violations or hazards to appropriate contacts (JHSC Representatives, Supervisors, Managers)
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP):
- Follows and understands all relevant Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) with respect to Good Manufacturing Practices
Company Culture:
- Demonstrates a commitment to VP’s core values of service, care, respect, integrity, and community by incorporating these principles into daily work, decision-making, and interactions with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders
- Embodies and promotes VP’s mission of delivering the highest level of service to our member practices through the personal actions of people care.
Skills and Knowledge Required
- 3-5 years’ experience in a Procurement Manager role or business equivalent.
- Minimum of a Bachelor University Degree.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Software
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Advanced problem solving and decision-making abilities. Demonstrated expertise in negotiating and conflict resolution.
- Exceptional organizational and time management abilities.
Schedule and Hours of Work
- Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- In person
Location
This position will be located at VP’s Head Office in St Marys (485 Queen St W, St. Marys, ON N4X 1B7).
Compensation
$85,449.00 - $122,070.00
NOTE: Salary will be determined based on the successful applicant's experience and qualifications. This role also qualifies for an annual performance bonus.
Vacancy Reason
Why Choose VP?
- Competitive salary
- Employer-funded pension plan
- RRSP top-up program
- 100% employer-paid Health and Dental Benefit premiums, with option to enhance benefits coverage through employee co-pay
- Proud to support the local St. Marys' community
- Helping to serve the animal health industry in Canada
- Paid time off to volunteer
How to Apply:
Please apply online with your cover letter and resume at: https://vpcl.bamboohr.com/careers
Application Deadline: Wednesday May 20th, 2026 @ 12pm (noon)
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be acknowledged. No phone calls please.
Veterinary Purchasing Company Ltd. is committed to employment equity and welcomes diversity. In addition, Veterinary Purchasing Company Ltd. encourages applications from all qualified individuals including persons with disabilities, Indigenous persons, women, and members of visible minorities.
Veterinary Purchasing Company Ltd. provides accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process. If you require accommodations to complete an application, please contact Human Resources [email protected] or call 519-284-1371 ext. 256 and we will work with you to meet your accommodation needs.
