Job Overview:

The Senior Equipment Specialist - Refrigeration is responsible for sourcing equipment, negotiating pricing, and managing supplier relationships for assigned categories that support grocery retail operations, merchandising and maintenance activities. This position serves as a subject matter expert in commercial refrigeration systems, consulting with independent grocery retailers on equipment specifications and solutions. 

Job Responsibilities

• Build and manage strategic vendor partnerships to ensure competitive pricing, product availability and innovation

• Develop and execute category strategies that improve cost, quality, performance and total lifecycle value

• Serve as the primary point of contact for vendor program related questions and monitor vendor performance, including quality, lead times, service support and issue resolution

• Make recommendations and quote equipment for projects based on individual retailer needs within given budget parameters

• Update and maintain vendor information in a database, including product and service offerings, price, and key contact information

• Stay current on equipment trends, emerging technologies, and industry best practices to provide optimal solutions for retailer needs

• Drive consistent cost savings and value creation opportunities across assigned categories while maintaining quality and service standards

• Train, mentor and provide guidance to new team members and less experienced associates.

• Lead or support specialized projects as assigned

• Negotiate and execute contracts for assigned categories

• Oversee product and service rollouts from inception through implementation when required

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements: Education/ Certifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred

• Purchasing Manager Certification, preferred but not required

Experience:

• Minimum 6+ years relevant work experience in procurement, sourcing, negotiating contracts or similar field

• Grocery retail industry knowledge preferred

Knowledge/Skills/ Abilities

• Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills

• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and make sound business decisions

• Strong negotiation, contract management and vendor management skills

• Ability to develop and maintain effective business relationships at all levels of the company and business community.

• Ability to create and deliver presentations to management, customers and other business partners

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, priorities and deadlines across diverse customers and geographies

• Strong project management, organizational and leadership skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and business systems (Oracle a plus)

• 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.

Physical Environment/Demands: Office Roles:

• Most work is performed in a temperature-controlled office environment.

• Incumbent may sit for long periods of time at a desk or computer terminal.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.  

• Incumbent may use calculators, keyboards, telephones, and other office equipment in the course of a normal workday.

• Stooping, bending, twisting, and reaching may be required in the completion of job duties.