Purchasing Manager

Coulson Aviation is a global aerial firefighting company that supports Emergency Service efforts through the delivery of specialized aircraft and highly trained team members.

Coulson Aviation operates across the world with a growing fleet of aerial firefighting assets consisting of both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. With our privately owned and operated fleet of Boeing 737 FIRELINERS, Hercules C130, Citation and King Air, CH47D Chinooks, and Sikorsky S-61 fire support platforms, we provide first class, rapid response delivery during critical events of wildfire activity.

Due to the company’s continued global expansion, we are looking to add a Purchasing Manager to our Port Alberni, BC team.

HOW YOU’LL CONTRIBUTE TO THE GLOBAL MISSION;

The Purchasing Manager is responsible for developing and managing procurement strategies to ensure the timely and cost-effective acquisition of materials and aircraft parts essential to the company’s global operations. This role manages vendor relationships and aligns procurement with operational and project-based needs in Canada, the US and Australia.

THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THIS OPPORTUNITY:

• Develops and implements purchasing strategies aligned with operational needs and objectives. Establishes and manages supplier relationships to secure reliable sources of aircraft parts and maintenance supplies.
• Negotiates vendor agreements and service terms to ensure favorable terms such as pricing, delivery timelines, and quality. Ensures all purchasing activities comply with industry standards and company policies.
• Works closely with Maintenance and Logistics teams to ensure adequate inventory levels, preventing shortages. Monitors stock levels, forecasts demand and establishes contingency plans for critical components.
• Provides leadership to purchasing staff, setting clear objectives, offering coaching, and conducting performance reviews. Ensures professional growth and development of team members while maintaining a high-performing procurement function.
• Analyzes market trends, evaluates new suppliers, and implements process improvements. Develops risk mitigation strategies to protect the supply chain against disruption.
• Other related duties as required.
  
  

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE ROLE:

• Minimum 5 years of progressive procurement experience required, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or managerial capacity.
• Aviation experience preferred, including vendor negotiations and sourcing of aircraft parts and maintenance supplies.
• Experience working in a fast-paced, operationally critical environment is highly valued.
• Strong knowledge of procurement processes, supply chain management, and vendor negotiations.
• Familiarity with aviation/aerospace regulatory requirements.
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and procurement software, CORRIDOR being an asset.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and reporting skills.
• Inventory management and forecasting.
  
  

We support diversity, equity, and a workplace that is free from harassment and discrimination. We are committed to providing accommodation for people with disabilities. If you require accommodation through any element of the job application process, please notify us and we will work with you to meet your needs.