Purpose:

The Director of Operations Automation will provide effective deployment and operationalization of automation solutions that meet the business needs while delivering on time and on budget per the capital expenditure budget consistent with the Transformation strategy. The role will oversee all aspects of implementation, vendor installation, launch and go-live support while coordinating with peers on construction and site improvement work and system testing. The role will create effective partnership with operations teams, guiding the handoff of solution operations from project phase to production processing. The role will also work closely with business leaders in Regional Operations and other stakeholders in supporting departments to identify, recommend, develop, implement, and support the business growth where applicable due to changing needs of the business. The incumbent will work with the DCs across the network to find drive system stability and use data to identify continuous improvement opportunities, working with operations teams on optimization of process and solution providers to implement system enhancements. This role will lead a team of Sr. Automation Managers executing on multiple project deliveries across the network.

Essential Functions:

• 10% - Develop and lead the automation execution team, providing coaching, mentorship and expectations to create a cohesive and effective team. Serve as an example, establishing expectations for success with vendors, operations teams and other stakeholders leading to the achievement of key deliverables in automation projects. Achieve automation solution deliverables including safety during installation and operations, effective quality measurements, and providing an enhanced customer experience. 
• 35%- Lead Senior Automation Manager team in the delivery of all automation project implementations, including coordination of UNFI owned exclusions across construction trades, providing vendor management and oversight during physical installation and commissioning of systems, creation of test plans, and supporting the launch of installed systems. 
• 35%- Provide support during the launch, ramp up and sustainment of new automation systems. Lead the automation execution team to provide all aspects to operationalize the automation, including assistance with training plans, input regarding inventory planning and ramp up, and support during  the run state operations. This role will establish and foster strong partnerships and vendor relationships to ensure successful delivery, performance and enhancements to integrated systems during the implementation and operations phases of projects and on-going operations.
• 10%- Perform key leadership roles, contributing to the intake, design, planning and overall solution development supporting UNFI’s automation roadmap. Leverage experience to provide inputs for estimation and sizing, engineering and budgeting. Identify barriers for the overall roadmap, both short and long-term as well as opportunities for continuous improvement and system enhancements.
• 10%- Develop data-driven plans in partnership with operations, solution providers and UNFI teams to effectively launch technology, ramp up utilization and throughput, and operationalize automation systems. Provide insight and guidance on reporting needs, dashboarding, and KPIs to drive and measure success.
•  Performs other relevant job duties as required.

 
Job Requirements: 

Education/Certifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, supply chain, information technologies or related field, or equivalent work experience
• MBA preferred, but not required in lieu of years of relevant experience

Experience:

•  5+ years of experience in distribution operations or supply chain including with mechanization and/or automated environments
• Engineering background preferred: to include automation solution operations and implementation, project management experience and vendor management
• Construction and facilities experience preferred
• AutoCAD System Experience preferred
• Multi-functional work experience preferred
• Multi-Project leadership experience preferred
• System Implementation Preferred
• Demonstrated leadership of direct reports preferred

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: 

• Knowledge of supply chain and automation systems, including but not limited to Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Warehouse Controls Systems (WCS), Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) or Asset Management software, and other related technological systems such as scanning, voice picking and labor management systems
• Successful background with distribution operations processes including mechanization and automation technology
• Demonstrated success implementing warehouse automation and warehouse management software systems, and managing third party vendors
• Experience creating process flows outlining associate/automation interaction, writing SOPs and technical training documentation
• Demonstrated skill and knowledge with the integration and installation of automated and mechanized technologies, including integration to WMS, WCS and other warehouse technologies
• Knowledge of food distribution operations, including warehouse, inventory and transportation operations
• Proven ability to effectively manage third-party relationships, driving accountability and delivering results.
• Ability to identify and action technical solutions to business problems to support business improvement
• Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Excel, Word, Project, PowerPoint, and BI software platforms
• Proficient with project scheduling and flowcharting software. Knowledge of MS Project and Visio preferred
• Excellent interpersonal and communications skills; ability to communicate at all levels of an organization
• Ability to lead, collaborate and influence others across direct report and multiple cross-functional teams with varied backgrounds and experiences
• Strong problem-solving skills; ability to analyze and draw conclusions from data and experience
• LEAN, six sigma, process management skills preferred
• Proven competency utilizing innovative thinking, thought diversity, experience and problem-solving methodology to navigate change, obstacles, and
• achieve desired outcomes
• Relationship builder, able to establish strong partnerships, both internally as well as with third-party entities
• Ability to multi-task, manage priorities, adhere to timelines while delivering high-quality results that deliver on automation needs; takes initiative to set and achieve goals and objectives
• Strong drive and self-starter; well organized

Physical Environment/Demands:

•  Travel within the US required >75%
• Occasional travel outside of the US if needed
• Work is performed in a variety of Distribution Center or industrial warehouse environments
• Some work will be performed in a temperature-controlled office environment
• Incumbent may sit for long periods of time at desk or computer terminal
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and walk within a distribution center; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. 
• While performing this work, Incumbent may sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The role requires the use calculators, keyboards, telephone, and other office equipment in the course of normal workday
• Exposed to temperatures ranging from -20 degrees below zero to 35 degrees Fahrenheit in perishable operation and 37 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit in grocery operation

 All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, 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.