Senior Supplier Manager

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!

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.

•    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