The art of collaboration: Emeric's unique journey at DAWCO
Yasmine : Hello Emeric, thank you for taking the time today to share your experience and journey with us. With over 13 years at DAWCO, your path has surely been filled with challenges and successes. So, tell us, how did you get to DAWCO?
Emeric : When I arrived in Quebec from France in 2010, I registered with a temp agency. The day after I signed up, a representative from the agency called to tell me I had an interview at DAWCO in two hours. I was out on the town, in jeans and sneakers, nothing formal... I was told not to worry about the outfit, but to be on time. Result: it was my first and only interview in Quebec, and I've been here ever since! I went from junior buyer to senior buyer, and today I'm director of purchasing and logistics.
Yasmine : What a wonderful career path! Your career path illustrates the value of surpassing oneself at DAWCO. Which of the projects you've worked on stands out in your mind?
Emeric : The electrical construction project for the Molson plant in 2020 is a project that stands out. It was one of the first large-scale design-build projects. This model enabled us to propose customized solutions, which simplified procurement and optimized team time. The project met all its objectives: deadlines, quality and margins. And it's worth noting that this project took place before the Covid-19 health crisis.
Yasmine : It must have been gratifying to see a project come off so well despite the challenges. You mentioned the Covid-19 epidemic as a major transformation factor. What's changed since then?
Emeric : Covid turned the supply chain upside down. Before, we used to receive equipment within a reasonable timeframe. Now, everything is just-in-time, and planning has become more than essential to avoid delays and adapt to new market realities.
Yasmine : These are major challenges. After all these years at DAWCO, what still motivates you in your role?
Emeric : What I like about purchasing and logistics is that our department is at the crossroads of all the teams: sites, estimating, warehouse... Each department has its own color, its own energy, and we have to juggle all these dynamics. It's always changing, and every project is a new story, which keeps my job exciting and stimulating.
Yasmine : What are the recurring challenges in your role, and how do you deal with them?
Emeric : Planning remains our biggest challenge. We often work in catch-up mode due to circumstances beyond our control. But with good communication and smooth coordination between the teams, we manage to overcome these obstacles. For example, we recently had to clear a site in just one week. This required meticulous coordination: returning stock, managing rented equipment, and negotiating with suppliers. Thanks to good preparation and team support, we were able to meet this logistical challenge.
Yasmine : Speaking of support, how do technological tools help you in your role?
Emeric : We use software like On-Track to keep track of our tools in storage, and Maestro to manage our suppliers. Recently, I discovered Power BI, which offers incredible reports and helps us with planning and risk management. These tools add real value to our day-to-day work.
Yasmine : Very interesting! In your opinion, what personal qualities and attitudes are needed to succeed and grow in your role?
Emeric : I'd say credibility, especially with project teams, and a good network are essential. But you also need to be open-minded, determined and not afraid to take the initiative. These elements enable you to adapt and find solutions, whatever the obstacles.
Yasmine : And what are you most proud of at DAWCO?
Emeric : My team. It's motivated, stable and close-knit. Knowing that my colleagues enjoy their work and feel good about it is a great source of satisfaction. It's thanks to them that we overcome the challenges we face every day.
Yasmine : What you just said is so beautiful. It's a testament to the quality of your leadership and the working environment you've built together. Do you have an anecdote to tell us?
Emeric : Yes, I have one from my first week at DAWCO. In France, “faire la bise” or “donner un bec” is common practice, even in professional interactions. So, when I arrived here, I naturally started giving my colleagues a bec every morning. Until one day, one of my colleagues kindly explained to me that it wasn't a habit in Quebec, and that I didn't have to do it. We had a good laugh, and it gave me a better understanding of cultural differences as soon as I started here.
Yasmine : That's such a funny anecdote! It shows how cultural differences can sometimes lead to funny and memorable moments. Speaking of work-life balance, how do you manage that?
Emeric : Outside work, I do a lot of sport: running with my daughter, skiing with my family, and even soccer when we manage to organize matches at DAWCO against our colleagues at Systemex Automation. I also love music and concerts, which I share with my family. All these activities allow me to recharge my batteries and maintain a healthy balance.
Yasmine : To sum up your career at DAWCO, if you had to choose one word or expression, what would it be?
Emeric : I'd choose an expression from the film The Red Line: “In this world, a man alone is nothing, and there is no other world”. I think this phrase sums up the buyer's job perfectly. Alone, you can achieve nothing. It's the people you work with, the network you build, and all the relationships you cultivate that enable you to really excel. You need to be well surrounded, whether it's by a solid team of buyers, a good team in the warehouse, or reliable guys on the job sites. It's all about communication and trust. If these elements are in place, everyone can concentrate on their mission, knowing that they are well accompanied and supported.
Yasmine : Thank you so much, Emeric, for such a rich and inspiring interview. Your career path and that last beautiful expression perfectly illustrate the importance of human relations and collaboration in an environment like ours. Your experience, know-how and, above all, interpersonal skills are a real asset to DAWCO.
Yasmine Hebiche, Marketing and Communications Director