Sr. Equipment Specialist - Refrigeration

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

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)

Physical Environment/Demands:

• Office
• Sit for long periods of time at a desk or computer terminal
• Use hands to finger, handle, or feel
• Reach with hands and arms
• Talk or hear
• Use calculators, keyboards, telephones, and other office equipment in the course of a normal workday
• Stoop, bend, twist, and reach may be required in the completion of job duties

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.

UNFI Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Competitive 401k
• Flexible PTO or Competitive PTO plan
• Mentorship program/developmental opportunities
• Other benefits applicable to specific role

UNFI is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and respectful environment for all. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other protected ground. Accommodation is available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the job selection process.

This job posting should not be construed as an offer of employment with certain terms, nor should it be construed as a guaranteed minimum. Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance and the California Fair Chance Act.