Sr. Manager Business Operations at United Natural Foods Inc in York, Pennsylvania

Job Description:

This position will require travel. Can be located in any location. 

Position Purpose:

This position will support the development of Annual and long-term Strategy and its implementation.

Implement enterprise level “best practice” warehouse operations methodology and develop “key operational metrics” for reporting across operations enterprise. Develop people, policies, procedures, and training to ensure efficient and effective warehouse operations and significant P &L contributions across UNFI business units.   

• Develop National Warehouse SOP’s within both Conventional and Natural DC’s


• Develop standardized warehouse policies which support the execution of the company’s short and long-term goals. 


• Alignment of Operations KPIs, support the execution of the company’s short and long-term goals.


• Conduct organizational reviews to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and to evaluate operational effectiveness.  Facilitate creation of action plans to close gaps on main opportunities.


• Analyze strategic initiatives and provide recommendations within National Operations


• Drive the implementation of critical business initiatives across the National Operations organization.


• Create business cases to support critical business decisions.


• Support implementation and proper use of Warehouse Management Systems, Labor Management, Automation and Supply Chain Initiatives as key projects driving Operational Excellence. Planning and directing annual and long-term goals and Strategic Plans.


• Focus on leading / supporting company’s growth, profitability and Operational Excellence initiatives.

• Strengthen associate safety policy, best practices and regulatory compliance.


• Strengthen food safety policy, best practices and regulatory compliance.


• Responsible for the development and implementation of effective National Warehouse and Operations planning, methodology, reporting, ranking and policy development.


• Align department goals in line with corporate objectives. Develop and institute policies and practices to meet and/or exceed key performance metrics and customer satisfaction goals.


• Executes on goals and ensures corporate-wide plans are complemented and supported including labor standards, methods, compensation and incentives, and legal compliance.


• Conducts periodic reviews of existing systems, technologies, products and procedures.  Provides recommendations regarding improvements in service delivery, processes, methods, standards and equipment needs which will further the Company's objectives. 


• Develops warehouse operations system improvements by analyzing process work flow, manning and space requirements, and equipment layout; implementing changes.


• Suggests efficiency ideas, cost reduction measures and assists with the implementation of changes within inbound and outbound warehouse operations. Identifies problems, proposes solutions to other members of management and promotes cooperation with other departments.

• Ensures compliance with applicable laws and regulations. 


• Ensures the security and safety of Company property, equipment, and personnel. 


• Ensures the Company's professional reputation is maintained throughout the organization and the community. 


• Perform duties in accordance with Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) and Safe Quality Food (SQF) policies and procedures, as appropriate for location

• National Warehousing functions are efficient, effective, and delivered in accordance with Company policies, procedures, and with applicable laws.  Key performance metrics include warehouse expense as % to sales, cost per case, throughput (CPH), safety and associate turnover.


• National Warehousing policies and procedures are regularly reviewed and revised as needed.  National Warehousing policies effectively complement and support Company strategies and goals.


• National Warehousing functions are well coordinated among related departments.  Good communication exists and support is provided as needed.


• National Warehousing activities are regularly and effectively reviewed.  Quality control procedures are appropriate and productive, and corrective actions and suggestions are implemented as needed. 


• National Warehousing personnel are effective, efficient, and optimally utilized.  Good communication exists and support is provided as needed.


• Senior Management is appropriately informed of National Warehousing activities and of any significant challenges.  Suggestions for continuous improvement and efficiency or effectiveness are provided.  Required reports and records are accurate and timely.


• The Company’s professional reputation and service excellence are maintained.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience.

• Outstanding analytical skills (numerical, verbal).


• Strong Strategic Planning, Financial and Operations / Business Background. 


• Strong business acumen


• Process modeling experience


• Project Management experience strongly preferred.


• Knowledge of systems, WMS, Voice, Automation, Roadnet, PeopleNet, Labor Management and incentive planning, accounting, IT, human resources, purchasing, facilities, fleet, security, and quality control procedures and programs.


• Knowledge of general warehouse best practices to include Work Methods & Observations, P&L Definitions and Forecasting, Productivity Management and Reporting, Sanitation and Food Safety, Crewing Models and Scheduling, Slotting Best Practices, Dock Methods Inbound and Outbound, Replenishment Methods, IC Daily Best Practices, Returns Processing.


• Understanding of related legal and regulatory requirements.


• Proficient computer skills including Excel, MS Word, PowerPoint, and BI software platforms


• Knowledge of Company products and services.

• 10 plus years of operations leadership experience with continuous advancement and increasing responsibilities preferably in wholesale food distribution.


• Position requires 75% travel to UNFI DC’s


• Travel is expected Monday morning returning Friday

• Ability to effectively document written SOP’s


• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and managerial skills


• Demonstrate project management and successful implementation of complex initiatives


• Proven ability to effectively manage accountability and measures to hold self and others accountable for performance results


• Ability to leverage thought diversity to identify and execute innovative ideas to improve the business


• Demonstrate strong communication skills, ability to establish direct relationships and display excellent customer service focus


• Strong organizational skills


• Ability to execute with speed and agility to achieve established goals despite challenges

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. UNFI is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and respectful environment for all. - M/F/Veteran/Disability. VEVRAA Federal Contractor.