Director of Procurement- Remote

The Director of Procurement is responsible for developing, leading and driving Procurement strategic initiatives for up to $2B of inventory. This position will be responsible for key stakeholder engagement and working partnerships with cross-functional leaders to create solutions and drive UNFI growth. The Director will work through the department to optimize service level to customers, balance Days on Hand (DOH) and minimize inventory spoilage for UNFI. Accomplishes results working through Managers and/or Sr Managers levels. Ensures that project and department milestones are met. Has full authority for personnel actions.

Job Responsibilities

• Responsible for executing strategic initiatives to drive forward the Procurement organization. This includes partnering with internal and external leaders.
• Demonstrates strategic and results-oriented leadership with Procurement including accountable to regular financial reporting (inventory, spoilage, SG&A); and urgency to address gaps in order to achieve UNFI goals and budget.
• Ensures the completion of strategic projects within established timeframes. Works to exceed expectations.
• Partners with Customers and Suppliers to drive effective planning procedures and policies to drive cost beneficial improvements to inventory, spoilage and customer fill rates.
• Partner with key, strategic customers on promotions, demand and inventory to optimize the supply chain.
• Manages a team of leaders responsible for performance goals to meet the company objectives as well as identifying new processes and efficiencies.
• Responsible for partnering with Information Technology to implement current Procurement systems to continue to maximize UNFI’s inventory and service level.
• Leverages current customer and supplier relationships to further expand business opportunities at all levels.
• Responsible for ensuring professional relations with all customers, suppliers, trade professionals, external contacts, and within all company regions and divisions.
• Ensures customers, suppliers, third parties, and business partners are well informed through continual feedback and communication.
• Oversees, in coordination with supply chain managers, supplier on boarding execution, and development of specific protocols specific to enhancing emerging suppliers’ ability to be a profitable and successful supplier to UNFI
• Serves as a cultural champion through continuous improvement, integration, change management and UNFI initiatives.
• Promotes a culture of open communication to allow for continouis feedback.
• Acts as a coach and mentor to identify and develop top talent for succession planning.
• Leverages current alliances and customer and supplier relationships to further expand business opportunities at all levels.
• In conjunction with other senior managers, provides leadership to supply chain personnel through effective objective setting, delegation, training, and communication.
• Designs strategies to capitalize on market buy opportunities.
• Designs policies, partners in implementation and manages of VMI supplier relationships.
• Designs policies, partners in implementation and manages Customer’s private label supplier relationships.
• Performs other job duties as required.

Job Requirements

Education/ Certifications: (Required & Preferred)

• Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent related experience

Experience

• Eight or more years procurement experience, preferably in the distribution industry.

Knowledge

• Extensive knowledge of industry principles and practices
• Knowledge of analytical concepts specific to procurement

Skills/ Abilities

• Ability to perform complex tasks and to prioritize multiple projects in accordance with deadlines
• Ability to use independent judgment and to manage and impart confidential information
• Ability to develop and deliver presentations
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community
• Ability to resolve customer/vendor complaints and concerns
• Negotiating skills as well as conflict resolution and/or mediation skills
• Ability to be diplomatic and possess tact
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Ability to lead others
• Analytical skills
• Good judgment is required for this position as there may be times when direct supervision may not be immediately available.

Physical Environment/ Demands

• Some travel may be required
• Most work is 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 sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear
• Incumbent may use calculators, keyboards, telephone and other office equipment in the course of normal workday
• Stooping, bending, twisting and reaching may be required in completion of job duties

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

Remote