Job Overview:

The Retail Merchandising Manager is responsible for leading in-store merchandising operations and driving the execution of Shelf Services programs across UNFI retail partners. This role oversees regional field teams, manages merchandising resets, and ensures alignment with both UNFI and retailer goals for space optimization and sales growth. The manager collaborates cross-functionally with internal departments and external partners to deliver high-impact merchandising solutions, while maintaining budget accountability and operational excellence.   

Location: Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota

Job Responsibilities:

• Develops and manages regional field teams, staffing with qualified candidates, assigning work, and monitoring progress against goals. Provides retail expertise and technical guidance. Collaborates across Sales, Merchandising, Assortment, and DC Operations. 
• Leads team development through mentoring, performance management, coaching, and enforcing policies. Fosters a culture of service, integrity, and support. 
• Maintains customer satisfaction through regular communication with Account Managers and leadership. Addresses issues and opportunities promptly. 
• Overseas major merchandising projects, including store layout reviews and reset execution. Provides guidance to direct reports. 
• Represents Shelf Services Merchandising philosophies with independent retailers considering our services.  Evaluates business opportunities, determines potential for increased sales based on the use of retail space. Plays a major role in optimizing the use of retail space with retailers.  Maintains rapport with key accounts by making periodic visits; exploring specific needs; anticipating new opportunities. Visits the competition and benchmark stores to develop a network of ideas and solutions. 
• Communicate with key UNFI personnel on competitor activity, customer requests, and merchandising needs. Develops action plans and reset schedules. 
• Independently resolves conflicts between retail, regional teams, UNFI, and vendor/broker partners. 
• Manages territory P&L, including sales tracking, expense approvals, payroll, and budget oversight. Drives profitability and cost efficiency. 
• Champions innovation and supports new initiatives. Travels to stores and offices to assess merchandising opportunities for new stores, remodels, and resets. 
• Exercises discretion and independent judgement in project planning and selling Professional Services. Supports presentations and customer engagement across the UNFI portfolio. 
• Conduct store audits to identify staffing gaps. Oversee third-party merchandising teams executing full-service solutions. 
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:  

Education/Certifications:  

• Bachelor’s degree in business or related area of experience preferred. 
• Valid Driver’s License is necessary. 
• Auto Insurance levels that meet UNFI requirements. 

Experience:  

• 5+ years in retail, preferably grocery or specialty channels. 
• 5+ years in team leadership, coaching, and performance management. 
• 5+ years in sales or customer service. 
• Wholesale buying and/or retail operations preferred. 
• Proven leadership, negotiating and communication skills. 

Knowledge/ Skills/ Abilities: 

• Knowledge of industry best practices. 
• Strong Grocery, Frozen, Dairy product knowledge is essential. 
• Strong knowledge of store layouts & planograms. 
• Excellent customer service and communication skills both verbal and written. 
• Deal effectively with a wide variety of people both in person and over the telephone. 
• Effective leadership and supervisory capabilities. 
• Ability to inspire, motivate and work with others to achieve desired results. 
• Skilled in managing multiple priorities and adapting to change. 
• Effective staff development and training skills. 
• Effective decision-making skills and ability to influence without authority. 
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment. 

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.