Job Description

Reporting to the Senior Director of HR, the Director of Talent Acquisition for the Sawmills & Woodlands Divisions is a strategic HR leader responsible for building and executing a talent strategy that supports operational excellence, leadership and succession needs, and workforce sustainability across a geographically dispersed and operationally complex business. This role partners closely with executive leadership, regional operational leaders, and the Human Resources team to attract, recruit and retain top talent. The Director will ensure a strong pipeline for critical roles from front-line operations to senior leadership to staff 14 dynamic operations across both divisions.

Talent Strategy & Workforce Planning

• Lead the development and execution of a divisional talent strategy aligned with business goals and workforce forecasts.
• Drive action items under the Attract & Recruit strategic pillar delivering on key initiatives to address talent gaps and future needs.
• Partner with external search firms and internal stakeholders to source talent for executive and critical roles.

Team Leadership & Recruitment Operations

• Lead a team of Recruiters and HRBPs across 5 regional operations located in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Maine and New York driving performance on key recruitment metrics and hiring standards.
• Optimize system features and daily management practices in Oracle Applicant Tracking System. Lead direct sourcing efforts using social media channels, Indeed, LinkedIn, etc.
• Provide expertise and advice on solutions to address business and hiring manager needs; identify issues, lead planning and effective execution of initiatives.
• Support the integration of corporate HR initiatives and objectives into operations and monitor compliance with corporate HR policies and procedures.
• Lead high volume recruitment operations for general labourers, students and seasonal workers.

• Optimize time-to hire by tracking funnel data, flagging bottlenecks, and deploying quick fixes and process improvements.

Employment Advertising and Branding

• Monitor and evaluate industry trends and strategies to align recruitment strategies with the everchanging market conditions. Develop solutions in support of distinguishing Sawmills and Woodlands as an employer of choice.
• Lead divisional recruitment campaigns, including student co-op programs, branded outreach, and targeted hiring for hard-to-fill and leadership roles.
• Lead the planning and execution of jobs fairs, open houses, career/networking events, partnerships and sponsorships to effectively engage candidates to meet talent needs.
• Leverage company social media channels as well as Indeed, and LinkedIn to attract and source talent.

• 5-10 years of progressive HR or talent leadership experience, preferably in industrial or operational environments. Experience working in manufacturing or rural environments would be considered an asset.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field; advanced degree or certification.
• Creative, high energy and able to manage shifting priorities
• Proven success in workforce planning, leadership development, and organizational design.
• Strong communication, facilitation, and coaching skills.
• Experienced in working with and advising senior leader on HR solutions

Founded in 1882, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) has operations in Canada and the United States and are a team of 20,000 dedicated employees. At J.D. Irving, Limited, you are part of a dynamic team of professionals who lead with integrity and are passionate about delivering results. With a culture that nurtures talent and creates an inclusive workplace, you can grow your career across our various operating divisions.
We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates, and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary, or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.
Worried you do not meet all the requirements? Studies have shown that many applicants apply only to job opportunities when they feel they meet 100% of the criteria. We promote an inclusive environment where everyone is appreciated, recognized, and empowered to contribute fully. If you are interested in this position but are worried you did not meet all the requirements, we would encourage you to still apply.
We appreciate your interest in our company however only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.