Job Overview:

Leads and manages the end-to-end delivery of new store openings, remodels, and capital improvement projects across various regions. Oversee all phases of the project lifecycle, including site evaluation, project planning, capital approval, design development, construction documentation, bidding, budget management, cost control, equipment selections, construction execution, grand opening, and project closeout.

Provides leadership and direction to UNFI team members, retailers/owners, external consultants, architects, engineers, contractors, developers, and other project stakeholders to ensure projects are completed on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with company standards for quality, safety, and operational excellence. Drives cross-functional collaboration, mitigates project risks, monitors performance, and ensures successful execution of strategic initiatives while delivering consistent customer and operational experience.

What does it mean to be part of our Professional Services Team? 

UNFI Professional Services is a part of UNFI, North America’s Premier Food Wholesaler. We offer products and services designed to help stores increase sales and profits, save time and money, and become more operationally efficient and competitive. Services are offered in the areas of Pricing, Shelf Management, Consumer Marketing + Digital, Retail Technology + Payments, Store Design + Equipment, Consumer Services, and Store Operations. These services are all designed to help grocers increase profits, simplify their operations, and become more effective in their markets.  At UNFI we strive to help make our customers stronger and our food solutions more inspired - delivering better together. 

Job Responsibilities:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all project-related matters, providing leadership and accountability for scope, budget, schedule, design, construction, and issue resolution throughout the entire project lifecycle.

• Manage multiple (6-15) concurrent projects and initiatives, coordinating effectively with cross-functional internal teams, project stakeholders, and external partners to ensure successful project delivery.

• Develop, maintain, and manage project scopes, equipment selections, budgets, plans, and schedules.

• Lead and coordinate site assessments, due diligence activities, and field surveys for new store, remodel, expansion, and capital improvement projects.

• Direct architects, engineers, and other design professionals in the development of construction documents. Communicate company standards and requirements while conducting plan reviews to ensure compliance, consistency, and design integrity.

• Develop preliminary project budgets, including equipment, fixture, and construction cost estimates, and manage ongoing cost controls throughout project execution.

• Assume overall responsibility for project performance, ensuring delivery in accordance with established standards for quality, cost, schedule, safety, and operational readiness.

• Conduct regular site visits and field inspections to monitor construction progress, verify compliance with contract documents, and proactively address issues to maintain project objectives.

• Coordinate store readiness activities, including equipment and fixture installation, utility activation, refrigeration startup, occupancy permits, and collaboration with Operations to support merchandising and opening readiness.

• Review and approve project expenditures, change orders, consultant invoices, and contractor pay applications while monitoring budget performance and financial compliance.

• Manage and execute project closeout activities, including final inspections, documentation, warranty administration, financial reconciliation, and turnover to Operations and Facilities.

• Foster effective communication and collaboration among internal stakeholders, developers, consultants, contractors, landlords, and governmental agencies to achieve project goals and maintain project momentum.

• Identify and implement best practices, process improvements, and innovative solutions to enhance project execution, reduce costs, improve efficiency, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

• Evaluate the performance of architects, engineers, contractors, and consultants, providing feedback and recommendations regarding future engagements. Ensure external partners understand and adhere to company standards and expectations.

• Promote open and transparent communication by encouraging the exchange of ideas, feedback, and recommendations from internal and external stakeholders and incorporating appropriate improvements into project delivery processes.

• Create, maintain, and manage detailed project schedules, tracking key milestones and ensuring accountability for achieving critical project deadlines.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements: Education/ Certifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, Project Management, Business, or a related field preferred.  Equivalent combinations of education, training, and relevant experience will be considered.

• Ongoing professional development in project delivery, leadership, construction, engineering, technology, or related disciplines is desirable.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in architecture, engineering, construction management, project management, or a related field, preferably supporting complex, multi-site capital projects.

• Proven ability to successfully manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting scope, schedule, budget, and quality objectives.

• Experience leading cross-functional teams and collaborating with internal stakeholders, consultants, contractors, and vendors to achieve project goals.

• Strong background in project planning, execution, change management, and documentation, including developing statements of work, action plans, and project reporting.

• Experience analyzing business needs, market trends, and operational requirements to identify opportunities and recommend practical solutions.

• Proven success in negotiating project scope, deliverables, timelines, and resources with stakeholders to establish clear expectations and accountability.

• Experience resolving conflicts, managing competing priorities, and driving consensus through a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach.

Knowledge/Skills/ Abilities:

• Excellent written and verbal communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.

• Strong leadership abilities with a demonstrated capacity to build effective teams, lead change, and motivate others to achieve results.

• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to make data-driven recommendations.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, including the ability to manage project documentation and report project performance.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, web-based business systems, and online reporting tools.

• Working knowledge of computer and network security concepts, systems, and best practices.

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): Travel is required up to (10-15) % for this position.

About UNFI: We are North America’s premier grocery wholesaler, delivering the widest variety of fresh, branded, and owned brand products to community grocers and retail chains alike. A pioneer in natural and organic foods, we are growing and transforming to meet the needs of an evolving workplace. Our 29,000+ employees work across America in our 50 Distribution Centers and corporate offices. Learn more: Organic, Natural and Conventional Food | Wholesale Food Distributors | UNFI