Director of Operations

Position Title: Director of OperationsManager: CEOLocation: On-Site in TorontoAre you a driven operations leader who LOVES dogs and wants to be part of a high-growth, entrepreneurial start-up in Toronto? Dandylion is rapidly expanding, and we’re thrilled to bring on a Director of Operations to take the reins on all things operations. If you're passionate about shaping the future of Dandylion, inspiring a team, and getting hands-on with a company that's redefining dog care, we'd love to hear from you!About UsDandylion (dandylionworld.com) is a rapidly growing start-up dog care brand committed to improving the health and well-being of dogs through innovative, easy-to-use grooming products. Since our launch in January 2022, we’ve built a strong and engaged Instagram community of 48,000 dog parents, and our products have gone viral on TikTok, with videos amassing over 12 million views. We distribute through Shopify, Amazon, and over 200 retail locations across the U.S. and Canada, including Petco and Chewy, with plans to expand to 600 locations by the end of the year. Currently, we offer 12 SKUs, with an additional 16 set to launch within the next 12 months. As we continue our rapid expansion, we're seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Operations to join our team. Reporting directly to the CEO, this role will be instrumental in driving our growth and shaping the future of Dandylion.Role OverviewAs the Director of Operations at Dandylion, you will be at the forefront of driving operational excellence, ensuring alignment with our objectives and key results. You will design and implement an operations roadmap that aligns with our corporate strategy, overseeing all functional areas of operations, including supply chain, inventory planning, product development, project management, retail operations, and more. As we continue to scale with new product launches and expand into new distribution channels, you will play a crucial role in building and leading the Operations team. This position offers limitless opportunities to make a significant impact, explore new challenges, and showcase your leadership.Key Responsibilities:Operational Leadership: Oversee daily operations, including product development, supply chain, procurement, contract manufacturing, logistics, and quality assurance. Process & Supply Chain Optimization: Lead initiatives to streamline and optimize all operational processes, from procurement and supply chain management to fulfillment, product development, and market expansion. Focus on reducing costs, minimizing waste, improving efficiency, and ensuring responsive, sustainable operations that enhance customer satisfaction.Inventory Demand & Supply Planning: Oversee inventory demand and supply planning to ensure optimal stock levels across all distribution channels.Supplier/Vendor Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors to secure high-quality goods, ensure timely deliveries, and negotiate cost-effective sourcing agreements.Fulfillment & Logistics Management: Oversee both in-house fulfillment and external logistics operations, coordinating with logistics partners to ensure timely and accurate delivery of products to customers and retailers.Technology Integration: Leverage technology solutions (e.g., ERP systems, inventory management software, and data analytics) to enhance visibility, improve decision-making, and streamline operations.Retail Operations & Rollout: Oversee the logistics and execution of retail rollout across platforms (Shopify, Amazon, mass retail), including setting up items with retailers. Ensure seamless integration, optimal performance, and inventory management to prevent stockouts and maximize product availability.Product Development & Project Management: Oversee the entire product development lifecycle, from concept to launch, ensuring that all projects are managed effectively to meet deadlines, stay within budget, and align with strategic goals. Ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards, particularly in the personal care and beauty sectors.Financial Oversight & KPIs: Monitor and manage operational budgets, analyze financial reports, contribute to strategic financial planning, and establish and track KPIs to ensure alignment with company goals.Team Management: Lead, mentor, and inspire a growing team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.Experience & QualificationsExperience: 7-10 years in operations management within the Consumer Packaged Goods industry, particularly in personal care, baby, beauty, or pet products.Leadership: A proven operations leader who has built and managed high-performing teams, fostering a positive and productive work environment, with a demonstrated ability to scale operations for growth.Financial Acumen: Strong experience in managing P&L, budgeting, forecasting, and strategic financial planning.Supply Chain & Retail Knowledge: Extensive experience in building and optimizing supply chains and working with various retail channels (Grocery, Drug, Mass, Natural, Specialty, E-Commerce).Creative Problem-Solver: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make data-driven decisions and pivot strategies when needed. Able to find creative solutions to problems and make the most out of limited resources.Detail-Oriented: Meticulous about every aspect of the operations, from supply chain logistics to quality control.Customer-Focused: Understands the end customer’s needs and ensures that operational decisions align with delivering a great customer experience.Positive “Can Do!” Attitude: Demonstrates a positive “Can Do!” attitude and is willing to get hands-on to achieve results.Adaptability & Resilience: Comfortable in a fast-paced startup environment with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and handle setbacks.Excellent Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate strategies to diverse stakeholders.Dog Lover: A genuine love for dogs, with an understanding of the pet care industry and a commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of pets and their owners.How to Apply: If you’re passionate about joining a dynamic startup and eager to make a meaningful impact on our operations, we'd love to hear from you. Please send your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and explaining why you’re the perfect fit for Dandylion to [email protected] with the Subject Line “Director of Operations at Dandylion”.