Production Planner

Job Description

Made Better isn't just a claim; it's our Dare promise.

Dare has been a proudly Canadian, family-owned company since 1889. Throughout our long history, we've created some of the most loved brands in the country including Bear Paws cookies, REALFRUIT gummies, Breton crackers, Melba Toast and many more. For over 130 years we had been located in the Kitchener area since the family's original store opened in 1892. We are head quartered in Cambridge Ontario and we've expanded our roots far beyond. With manufacturing plants in North America and over 1400 employees, Dare is part of the fabric of Canada.

At Dare our dedicated team works passionately to uphold our tradition of excellence, innovation and quality in every aspect of our operations. Our state-of-the-art facilities utilize advanced technology to ensure consistency and quality while meeting the evolving needs of our consumers and customers.

Please note that this is a 12-14 month contract

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and adjust production schedules to meet customer demand and plant capacity.
• Manage the ordering and replenishment of raw materials, ingredients, and packaging, ensuring optimal inventory levels while minimizing cost and waste.
• Monitor production progress, address delays or shortages, and communicate performance updates to Supply Chain and internal teams.
• Collaborate with Production, Purchasing, Receiving, Shipping, Engineering, and Quality to ensure smooth operations and support customer needs.
• Manage supplier relationships, follow up on purchase orders, and ensure timely delivery of materials.
• Conduct inventory analysis, maintain accurate MRP/ERP data, and oversee cycle counts and reconciliations.
• Identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities in planning, inventory management, and workflow processes.
• Analyze production and inventory data to support decision-making and reporting.
• Stay adaptable to seasonal changes, unexpected issues, and shifting priorities.
• Perform other related tasks as required to support operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or diploma in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, Manufacturing, Food Manufacturing, or related discipline (or equivalent experience).
• 3–5 years of experience in production planning, material planning, supply chain, or manufacturing operations.
• Strong working knowledge of MRP/ERP systems, production workflows, and demand/order management processes.
• Proficiency with MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and planning tools.
• Experience with SAP and Integrated Business Planning (IBP) is an asset.
• APICS/CPIM certification is considered an advantage.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication abilities, with the capability to work effectively across teams.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Highly organized, self-motivated, and able to work independently.
• Experience managing or collaborating with virtual teams is an asset.
• Positive attitude, team-oriented mindset, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Total Rewards Package: Our Total Rewards package reflects the investment we make in our employees to help them and their families achieve their well-being goals. Total Rewards at Dare Foods includes a competitive base salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits and retirement programs. In addition, we offer paid time off, career development opportunities as well as reward and recognition programs.

At Dare Foods Limited, we are dedicated to creating an inclusive, accessible, equal-opportunity environment that welcomes all individuals from all backgrounds because we know it will make our company a better place to work. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (visible or invisible, temporary or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment.

We want to thank all candidates in advance for their interest; only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Due to the volume of applications we receive, we cannot confirm the receipt of individual applications or resumes.