Senior Supplier Manager

Our Story and Why We're Growing

We are proud to announce the launch of Volkswagen Group’s largest cell factory, PowerCo, in St. Thomas. This is more than just a job – it’s a unique opportunity to shape the future of sustainable energy. Join us as we ramp up operations and help build a world-class company.

At PowerCo, we believe in fostering an environment where ambition meets collaboration, and where flexibility and creativity thrive.  You'll be part of a diverse, talented team that is shaping the future of battery production. You’ll have the chance to advance your career while working alongside passionate colleagues who share a vision of making a lasting impact on the world.

Are you ready to be part of something exciting? Power up your career with us!

About the Role

This role is responsible for achieving raw material supply security for Volkswagen’s cell factory in St. Thomas. Reporting to the Director, Raw & Active Materials, this position will require expert knowledge of raw materials for high voltage batteries as well as upstream battery production processes. This individual will support in the successful achievement of the vertical integration strategy of Volkswagen in Canada and the North American region.

This is a flex hybrid work structure, where employees can work both remotely and on-site at our St. Thomas location.

Key Responsibilities

•    Actively participate in the global and domestic investment qualification and execution process by conducting detailed market scans to identify potential investment or cooperation targets to secure battery raw materials. (Lithium, nickel, Colbalt, graphite).
•    Support industrialization and localization efforts for critical battery materials, with direct oversight of supplier readiness and capacity planning
•    Develop strategic roadmaps that will deliver financial, operational and sustainability benefits.
•    Conduct qualitative and quantitative analysis through data gathering, market intelligence, and financial modeling to support strategic sourcing, supplier evaluation, and cost optimization
•    Oversee end-to-end evaluation of strategic proposals, including investment pitches, joint ventures, and supplier development programs—conducting deep commercial viability assessments, technical feasibility reviews, and scenario analyses to inform C-suite decision-making
•    Liaise with counterparts in other functional areas of the company to ensure alignment of activities and objectives. Collaborate with engineering, quality, operations, sustainability, and legal teams to ensure material specifications, compliance, and traceability
•    Support negotiations with local suppliers,
•    Proactively identify and mitigate risks related to investment, supplier partnerships, and market volatility, ensuring a sustainable and secure supply chain.
•    Engage with senior leadership and external stakeholders, including governmental bodies, regulatory agencies, and key industry players, to advocate for the company’s interests and stay ahead of emerging market trends.
•    Stay informed on market trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes, ensuring the company is positioned to capitalize on new opportunities in the battery raw materials spaces.
•    Ensure suppliers meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) requirements and Canadian regulatory standards, including local content and Indigenous engagement obligations where applicable.
•    Proactively identify and mitigate risks related to investment, supplier partnerships, and market volatility, ensuring a sustainable and secure supply chain.
•    Evaluate the technical feasibility and commercial viability of proposals, projects and suppliers
•    Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key local stakeholders in the battery raw materials industry, enhancing collaboration and securing long-term strategic partnerships.
•    Perform other duties as assigned or as applicable to the job

What you bring to the Team

•    Bachelor’s degree in Geology, Mining Engineering, Chemical Engineering or Materials Engineering ,Engineering, Strategy or related area and/or equivalent relevant work experience.
•    Master’s Degree with emphasis on mining, metallurgy or chemistry considered an asset
•    10+ years professional experience in mining and/or metals refining.
•    Strong Knowledge and experience in the raw materials sector, specifically Lithium, Nickel, Cobalt and Manganese, as well as upstream battery production processes
•    Experience in Business Development and/or Strategic Procurement
•    Experience in managing competitive tenders and successfully negotiating outcomes.
•    Demonstrated ability and experience managing commercial relationships with suppliers and driving performance.
•    A professional approach, collaborative nature, with a strong drive and passion to bring a business on a transformation journey.
•    Developed influencing skills, business partnering and stakeholder management skills.
•    Proven ability working in a highly process driven & fast turnaround environment.
•    A high level of written and verbal communication and presentation skills.
•    Highly driven self-starter with proficient time management, planning and organization skills.
•    High degree of flexibility, willingness to work across different time zones and conduct business travel to potential suppliers (approx. 20 – 30%)
•    Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Desired Skills:
•    German language skills would be an asset but are not required.

Power Perks

•    Attractive Remuneration: We offer a competitive and attractive remuneration that reflect your skills, experience, and contributions.
•    Vacation Allowance: We offer our employees competitive paid time off. Plus, you don’t need to take any vacation days from December 24 to December 31.
•    Opportunities for development
•    Relocation Support
•    Opportunities to participate in exciting company events that give back to the community.
•    Competitive employer paid benefits and overall compensation package with extended health care, dental, vision and mental health support.
•    Pension and Retirement Savings: We contribute the equivalent of 5% to a Registered Pension Plan and matching contribution to a retirement savings plan.
•    And much more!

*This is a flex hybrid work structure, where employees can work both remotely and on-site. However, please note all hybrid work arrangements are subject to the terms and conditions of our hybrid work policy as may be amended from time to time.

Please note that we appreciate the interest of all candidates, however only those under consideration will be contacted.

We believe that the best results are created in a diverse and inclusive environment.
Therefore, all qualified applications will be considered for employment regardless of age, race, religion, gender (identity), sexual orientation, national origin or disability.

PowerCo Canada Inc. is committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities including during the application process. If you require an accommodation because of a disability, we will work with you to determine what reasonable accommodation may be available to meet your needs whether it be as an applicant or an employee. Applicants need to make their needs known in advance. If you are selected for an interview and require an accommodation, you are encouraged to advise the Recruiter who will consult with you to determine an appropriate and reasonable accommodation.