Product & Import Operations Lead
Role Overview
The Import Operations Lead plays a key role in the operational execution of product programs, from sample development through production finalization.
This role is focused on product execution, coordination, and data accuracy related to imported products, and does not involve transportation, warehousing, or distribution management.
Reporting to the Vice President, Import, this position acts as a central execution partner working closely with Product, Design, Quality, Marketing, Finance, and overseas partners to ensure disciplined and consistent execution.
Key Responsibilities
Import Operations Execution (Product-Focused)
- Oversee the sample-to-production execution lifecycle, ensuring deliverables, data, and timelines are accurate and complete
- Ensure production files are fully prepared and validated prior to handoff to the Logistics team
- Proactively identify execution gaps, risks, or inconsistencies and coordinate resolution with internal teams and overseas partners
- Maintain high standards of execution discipline, documentation quality, and data accuracy
Sample Development & Product Execution
- Manage timelines related to sample development, revisions, testing, audits, and approvals
- Coordinate execution between internal teams and factories (or CRO office)
- Ensure requirements related to design, compliance, packaging, branding, and testing are accurately integrated into production execution
Quoting, Item Setup & Product Data
- Oversee the accuracy and completeness of supplier quotes throughout the product development process
- Validate all required inputs prior to item creation (quantities, customer programs, compliance requirements, etc.)
- Ensure consistency and accuracy of product data across internal systems and tools
Purchase Orders & Systems (Data & Compliance Focus)
- Oversee PO creation in JDE from a data accuracy and compliance perspective
- Ensure key production-related information is correctly maintained in systems
- Partner with Finance and Logistics to ensure a smooth and complete handoff, without managing logistics execution
Process Improvement & Tools
- Support continuous improvement of import and product execution processes
- Maintain and enhance execution trackers, dashboards, and workflow tools (e.g., Monday.com)
- Structure and standardize shared documentation and workflows
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Act as a central point of coordination between Product, Design, Quality, Marketing, Finance, and external partners
- Promote structured, clear, and solution-oriented communication
- Contribute to a culture of execution excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Profile Requirements
Education & Experience
- Education in Product Operations, Import Operations, Sourcing, or a related field, or equivalent experience
- 7–10 years of experience in import operations, sourcing, or product operations
- Experience working with overseas factories and cross-functional product teams
Why Join Us
- Be part of a Canadian industry leader with over 70 years of expertise.
- Hybrid/remote flexibility with a 35-hour workweek.
- Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, life insurance, and long-term disability.
- 5 paid personal/sick days annually.
- Dynamic, collaborative team where your creativity is valued.
- Free on-site parking.
About the Holiday Group
The Holiday Group is a leading Canadian manufacturer and distributor of luggage, handbags, and fashion accessories, proudly offering collections under well-known brands such as Travelpro, Atlantic, Roots, Bench, and David Jones.
From timeless handbags to innovative travel solutions, our products are designed to combine style, function, and accessibility, and are available in major retailers and specialty boutiques across Canada.