Senior Import Specialist

Professional Growth Opportunity
This role is positioned as a key contributor within the Import function, with strong visibility across departments. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to progressively expand scope, develop leadership capability, and play a central role in shaping the future structure of the Import organization.

Role Overview
This person is responsible for overseeing and continuously strengthening the end-to-end import execution process, from sample request through production finalization and handoff to Logistics. Reporting to the Vice-President, Import, this role ensures timelines, data accuracy, documentation integrity, and cross-functional coordination are executed with a high level of discipline and consistency.
This role is designed for a high-potential operations professional who is eager to take ownership, strengthen execution standards, and progressively expand their leadership impact within the Import function. The position offers meaningful growth opportunities for a candidate demonstrating strong operational judgment, initiative, and long-term commitment to building best-in-class processes.
The Import Operations Lead plays a key role in supporting the continuous evolution of Import workflows by identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, leverage tools and systems, and reinforce structured execution across departments.

Key Responsibilities

Import Operations Execution

• Oversee the full sample-to-production execution lifecycle, ensuring timelines, milestones, and documentation requirements are met.
• Ensure a smooth transition from production finalization to Logistics with complete and accurate documentation.
• Proactively identify risks, delays, or execution gaps and support resolution in collaboration with internal teams and overseas partners.
• Maintain high standards of data accuracy and execution discipline across all active programs.

Sample & Production Timelines

• Manage sample development and production timelines in close collaboration with Product, Design, Marketing, Sales, Compliance, QC, Demand Planning, and Logistics.
• Validate timelines proposed by factories and CRO office and ensure alignment with business requirements.
• Ensure sample arrivals, revisions, testing, audits, packaging, and production milestones are clearly tracked and communicated.
• Communicate changes, risks, or dependencies to all relevant stakeholders in a timely manner.

Quoting, Item Creation & Approvals

• Review and track factory quotes throughout the development process to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Ensure internal quote files are properly reviewed and updated prior to approvals.
• Verify that all required inputs, including quantities, customer programs, and compliance requirements, are captured before item creation.
• Ensure final internal quotes are prepared and submitted for approval.

PO Creation, Systems & Documentation

• Support and oversee PO creation in JDE, ensuring pricing, quantities, approvals, and timelines are accurate.
• Ensure ETDs, ETAs, and key production data are correctly maintained in JDE.
• Verify and manage shipment bookings in ACS, resolving discrepancies between PO quantities, delivery details, and vendor submissions.
• Collaborate closely with Finance and Logistics to ensure efficient documentation flow and approvals.
• Regularly review systems data and shared documentation to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Process Improvement & Tools

• Contribute to the continuous refinement of import workflows, templates, and tracking tools.
• Maintain and enhance shared trackers, dashboards, and workflow platforms such as Monday.com.
• Participate in initiatives aimed at improving efficiency, clarity, and cross-functional coordination.
• Ensure shared import folders and documentation structures remain organized and scalable.

Cross-Functional & Leadership Exposure

• Serve as a central coordination point between internal teams and overseas factories or CRO office.
• Ensure information related to packaging, hangtags, ticketing, POP materials, and testing is accurately communicated to factories.
• Support completion of customer, licensor, and compliance-related documentation.
• Represent Import Operations in selected cross-functional meetings and contribute to operational decision-making discussions.
• Support the Vice-President, Import on key operational initiatives and execution priorities.

Collaboration & Development

• Work closely with the Import Coordinator to ensure alignment on timelines, execution standards, and information flow.
• Share best practices, process improvements, and operational learnings within the Import function.
• Demonstrate initiative, curiosity, and a strong desire to progressively expand scope and responsibility.

Key Requirements
Education & Experience

• College or university degree in Business, Supply Chain, or equivalent experience.
• 5–8 years of progressive experience in import operations, sourcing, or product operations, with increasing levels of ownership and accountability.
• Experience working with overseas factories and cross-functional teams.

Technical Skills

• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite with advanced Excel skills.
• Experience with ERP systems such as JDE is an asset.
• Experience using workflow and project management tools such as Monday.com.
• Strong understanding of the sample-to-production lifecycle and import documentation.

Soft Skills

• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and committed to execution accuracy.
• Strong problem-solving and prioritization skills.
• Ability to manage multiple timelines and perform effectively under pressure.
• Clear and effective communicator across departments and time zones.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the desire to build, improve, and take increasing responsibility over time.
• Strong ambition to grow within an evolving organization.

 

Why Join Holiday Group?

• Join a Canadian leader with over 70 years of industry expertise.
• Flexible schedule, hybrid work model, 35‑hour workweek.
• Full benefits package: medical, dental, life, disability.
• 5 paid personal/sick days per year.
• Supportive, collaborative team environment.
• Free parking on site.

About Holiday Group
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.