Purpose:   

The Director of SOX and Internal Controls will lead the design and execution of UNFI’s Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance program and drive continuous improvement in our internal control environment. Reporting directly to the VP, Corporate Controller, this role will partner across Finance, IT, and Operations to identify process risks, strengthen control frameworks, and advance automation and efficiency across the organization. This highly visible role offers the opportunity to shape strategy, enhance compliance maturity, and influence key business decisions. Your leadership will be critical in safeguarding financial integrity, supporting sustainable growth, and reinforcing the trust UNFI builds with its customers, suppliers, investors, and stakeholders.

Job Responsibilities: 

• Lead the company’s SOX 404 compliance program, including scoping, risk assessment, control design, testing, and remediation.

• Monitor and manage audit findings (internal and external), driving the development and timely execution of action plans through issue resolution and closure.

• Partner cross-functionally with Finance, IT, and Operations to design and strengthen entity-level controls, business process (manual and automated) controls, IT general controls, and reporting frameworks.

• Review and enhance policies, procedures, and control documentation to ensure effective design, appropriate ownership, and alignment with key risk areas.

• Prepare reports and updates for the Audit Committee, external auditors, and executive leadership.

• Collaborate with business leaders and process owners on internal controls, risk management, and compliance trade-offs.

• Drive continuous improvement in control efficiency, automation, and risk mitigation practices.

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of SOX and internal controls professionals, fostering empowerment and professional growth.

• Serve as primary liaison with external auditors, coordinating SOX scoping, testing, and remediation activities.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements: 

Education/Certifications:

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA).

Experience:

• 10+ years of experience in internal controls, SOX compliance, and audit, with a minimum of 5 years managing a team. Experience working at a public company, with quarterly reporting cadence.

• Big-4 public accounting & audit firm background Preferred.

• Retail and/or distribution industry experience Preferred.

• Experience with Oracle or SAP S/4HANA Preferred.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Strong understanding of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, the 2013 COSO framework and SEC guidance for management's assessment of internal controls over financial reporting.

• Good technical knowledge of US GAAP, internal controls, and revenue recognition (ASC 606).

• Proven track record of implementing scalable automated controls across financial systems.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with the team and cross functionally, and external partners.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify risks, conduct audits, and implement solutions.

• Should be self-motivated, balance multiple priorities while meeting deadlines, and work in a dynamic environment.

• Good judgment is required for this position as there may be times when direct supervision may not be immediately available.

Work Environment:

Remote Role:

• This position is classified as remote where the associate will perform remote work from their primary residence. Remote associates are welcome to work from the office but are not required to do so. While remote associates are not required to work from an office on a regular basis, they may be required to come to the office or other UNFI locations for necessary business reasons or if directed to do so by their manager.

Travel (minor):

• This position may require the associate to travel to company offices, distribution centers, or other locations for specific meetings or other business reasons.

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