Greenfield is seeking an Innovation Director to play a strategic role in the transformation and growth of the company’s profitability. This leader oversees innovation and research & development (R&D) projects, ensuring their alignment with corporate and business unit objectives. The position requires a global vision, strong technical expertise, and the ability to thrive in complex, regulated, and multidisciplinary environments. The incumbent coordinates the portfolio of innovative projects, ensures legal and environmental compliance, optimizes processes, and fosters a culture of continuous improvement.
Founded in 1989, Greenfield Global is one of the world’s leading suppliers of high-purity alcohols, specialty solvents, custom solutions, and fuel ethanol for businesses worldwide, serving diverse markets including renewable fuels, beverages, life sciences, food, and industrial products. With 4 distilleries, 5 blending facilities, and 9 warehouses, Greenfield efficiently fulfills more than 35,000 orders in over 50 countries. The company operates a major anaerobic digestion facility that converts 120,000 tons of organic matter annually into renewable natural gas. The low-carbon ethanol produced by Greenfield contributes to decarbonization efforts, and its team is innovating in sustainable fuels such as green hydrogen, methanol, aviation fuel, and renewable natural gas. Headquartered in Toronto, this family-owned company has consistently been recognized at the Platinum level among Canada’s Best Managed Companies since 2015.
Key Skills
Clear and persuasive communication tailored to different stakeholders
Strategic vision and ability to anticipate trends
Analysis and use of technical and financial data to guide decision-making
Creativity and ability to turn ideas into concrete solutions
Proactive leadership, sense of responsibility, and regulatory compliance
Rigor, process optimization, and promotion of continuous improvement
Organization, priority management, and resource orchestration
Agility and resilience in the face of change
Ability to influence, negotiate, and mobilize stakeholders
Enthusiasm, dynamism, and endurance to support performance
Decisive courage and integrity
Stress management and sound decision-making in critical situations
Autonomy and proactivity in carrying out mandates
Job Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Development
Act as an ambassador of innovation and value team contributions
Create an environment conducive to innovation and continuous learning across the organization
Ensure project consistency by facilitating communication among stakeholders
Organize synchronization points to align deliverables and timelines
Support talent development (training, mentoring, individual plans)
Participate in management committees and ensure smooth communication
Prevent and resolve disagreements to maintain efficiency and cohesion
Financial Management
Oversee the development and monitoring of annual and five-year investment plans
Coordinate with corporate finance on cash flows related to investments
Manage financial aid files, the SR&ED program, and audits
Conduct project studies and approve business plans
Identify financial and operational risks and propose mitigation measures
Define and track performance indicators (KPIs) to measure investment efficiency and profitability
Processes & Technical Expertise
Plan and execute R&D projects, including budget prioritization
Conduct technical and economic feasibility studies and analyses
Improve standards, processes, and tools related to innovation
Promote standardization and sharing of best practices
Apply LEAN principles in managing strategic projects
Handle complex files (technical solutions, calculations, disputes, risks, environment)
Oversee legal agreements and environmental authorizations
Serve as the main contact with authorities and external partners
Job Requirements
University degree in engineering (Master’s in management is an asset)
Significant experience in managing innovation, R&D, or industrial engineering projects
Mastery of economic models and investment tools
Strong understanding of regulatory and environmental issues
Experience managing multidisciplinary teams
Proficiency in project management tools
Required presence at the Varennes office according to current policies
Bilingualism (French/English)
Total Compensation & Benefits
Competitive base salary
Opportunities for formal and informal training
Comprehensive health and dental benefits
Income protection: short- and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, paid personal sick leave
Vacation time exceeding industry standards
Bonus program
Company-funded retirement savings program with individual contribution options
Meaningful and stimulating work
Organizational culture focused on growth and development, engagement, and communication
Core Values
Honesty
Integrity
Respect
Commitment
Openness to change
Team spirit
Guiding Principles
Innovation: We constantly seize opportunities to develop new products, processes, and methods to meet customer demands.
Collaboration: We are part catalyst, part collaborator. We work with partners to maximize existing products and develop customized solutions to meet client needs.
Responsibility: Our commitment to giving back to local communities goes beyond results. We give back to the planet by transforming renewable resources into low-carbon fuels and chemicals.
Agility: Our team is not only fast, but also flexible and creative in meeting customer needs with tailored, timely solutions.
Discipline: In every plant, for every client, for every shipment, we prioritize quality. We operate a tight and transparent supply chain while meeting the highest regulatory standards.
