Country EHS Manager - Canada

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Canada Country EHS Manager is responsible for leading all environmental, health, safety, and regulatory compliance programs across Canadian operations. This role ensures compliance with federal and provincial regulations, drives a strong safety culture, and oversees Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) obligations across multiple jurisdictions.

The position provides strategic leadership while partnering with operations, legal, supply chain, and merchandising teams to mitigate risk and ensure consistent execution across retail and distribution locations.

Location Consideration: This role supports operations across Canada and may be based in a variety of regions. Primary hiring markets include Vancouver, BC; Calgary or Edmonton, AB; Winnipeg, MB; and Ontario. Preference will be given to candidates located in Ontario, British Columbia, or Alberta. This is not a remote role and will be based out of a retail location within the selected province.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Lead the development and execution of EHS strategy across all Canadian operations.
• Ensure compliance with provincial Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) regulations and environmental laws.
• Establish standardized policies, procedures, and programs across multi-site operations.
• Monitor regulatory changes and implement program updates proactively.
• Oversee compliance with all federal, provincial, and municipal EHS requirements.
• Lead internal audits, inspections, and corrective action programs.
• Manage incident investigations, including serious injuries and environmental events.
• Interface with regulators and manage inspections, orders, and enforcement actions.
• Track and report key compliance metrics and risk indicators.
• Own EPR compliance across all applicable provinces (e.g., Ontario Blue Box, Recycle BC, ÉEQ, etc.).
• Ensure accurate reporting of packaging, products, and materials.
• Oversee Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) relationships, registrations, and fee management.
• Partner with merchandising and supply chain to ensure product-level compliance.
• Monitor evolving EPR regulations and drive implementation across the business.
• Partner with field leadership to implement EHS programs across stores and distribution centers.
• Drive consistency in safety practices across all locations.
• Support new store openings, renovations, and operational changes.
• Develop and deliver EHS training programs for field and corporate teams.
• Promote a proactive safety culture and accountability at all levels.
• Support Joint Health & Safety Committees (JHSCs) where applicable.
• ALL OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED.

EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum Degree Required:    Bachelor's Degree
• Preferred Degree:  Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science, Occupational Health & Safety, or related field (if applicable)
• Certificate(s) or License(s): Professional certification (CRSP, CHSC, or equivalent) preferred
• Years of experience: 8–12+ years of progressive EHS experience, including multi-site leadership

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITY:

• Strong knowledge of Canadian OHS and environmental regulations across provinces.
• Direct experience with Canadian EPR programs strongly preferred.
• Experience in retail, distribution, or multi-location environments preferred.
• Strategic leadership with strong execution capability.
• Deep knowledge of multi-jurisdictional compliance frameworks.
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills.
• Ability to manage regulatory risk in a decentralized environment.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• Up to 25–40% travel required to support multi-site retail and distribution operations across Canada.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Regularly sits and works on a computer.

Occasionally stands, walks, and lifts up to 50 lbs.

Additional Physical Requirements:

• Minimal physical exertion required; periodic site visits may involve light industrial environments.

INDEPENDENT JUDGEMENT:

Performs duties within scope of general company policies, procedures, and objectives. Analyzes problems and performs needs assessments. Uses judgment in adapting broad guidelines to achieve desired result. Regular exercise of independent judgment within accepted practices. Makes recommendations that affect policies, procedures, and practices.