Vice President Automation

Company: United Natural Foods
Location: Providence
Posted on: January 19, 2026

Job Description:

Job Overview: The VP Automation is responsible for leading UNFI’s automation strategy including the planning, analysis, solution design, project management, implementation, and operational sustainability of automation investments for the network. The VP is critical to this strategic objective and will directly manage the successful implementation of each investment while acting as a liaison for collaborative efforts with the solution provider(s), local DC team, cross-functional stakeholders and required third party business partners. Job Responsibilities: Core Responsibilities (NOTE: Should equate to 70% of overall job responsibility allocation) · Design, implement, and execute the warehouse automation strategy including full case solutions, unit pick systems and emerging technology to support UNFI’s Transformation Strategy associates with Network Optimization & Automation for the distribution network. · Drive the development of project justification including solution engineering and cost/benefit required to obtain approval for implementation. · Lead the project team responsible for the installation, commissioning, testing, and production planning associated with the project implementation, including on-time and on-budget execution. · Collaborate with real estate, construction, facility management and vendors to integrate the automation solution into the distribution centers including floor conditions, electrical and pneumatic energy supply, fire protection, lighting, etc. and permitting requirements. · Lead IT integration requirements including hardware and software necessary to meet business/functional requirements by directly collaborating with internal IT teams, WMS vendors, and solution providers. · Responsible for implementation of management, maintenance, and operations procedures and training to support a successful project implementation and sustained production environment. · Design and implement a process to validate the project ROI is realized by establishing contractual obligations holding responsible parties accountable, determining pre-production acceptance criteria, post-production rate testing and full project realization analysis. Performs other duties as assigned. Job Requirements: Education/ Certifications: · Bachelors degree in business or related field or equivalent work experience Experience: · 15 years of experience in distribution operations including mechanization and automated order fulfillment solutions · 5 years of project management preferred · Success implementing warehouse automation and control systems · Experience leading and developing a high performing team · Experience with distribution operations processes including mechanization and automation technology · Experience with building and facility maintenance including the proven ability to manage maintenance by leveraging CMMS Knowledge/Skills/ Abilities · Knowledge of systems: WMS, WCS, and PLC controls associated with the automation solution integration and management · Knowledge of regulatory compliance codes and experience in municipality permitting processes · Understanding of financial/accounting principles and operational budgeting · Proficient computer skills including Excel, MS Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, AutoCAD, and BI software platforms · Excellent communication, interpersonal, and managerial skills · Demonstrated projected management and successful implementation of complex initiatives · Proven ability to effectively manage accountability and measure to hold self and others accountable for performance results · Ability to establish direct relationships and display excellent customer service focus · Ability to execute with speed, agility, and organization to achieve established goals despite challenges · 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 (major): · Travel is required up to 75% for this position. 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. Warehouse Roles: · Ability to lift up to 75 pounds and to stand, walk, bend, stoop, twist, and turn frequently. · Exposed to temperatures ranging from -20 degrees below zero to 35 degrees Fahrenheit in Perishable Operation and 37 degrees to 90 degrees Fahrenheit in Grocery Operation. · Ability to do repetitious arm, wrist, and hand movements required for maintenance and service procedures. · Must be able to work with hands and arms overhead, and to work in or under the equipment. · Requires manual dexterity, overall coordination, and good balance to work both at ground level and in high places to perform job duties. Ability to operate work-related equipment. · Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. · Woodstock Farms: Ability to work in an environment containing tree nuts, peanuts, soy, wheat, sesame, milk and different spices like pepper, chili, etc. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature of the work performed by the employees assigned to this job. All employees must comply with Company policy and applicable laws. The responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified may vary within each department and/or location. 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. - M/F/Veteran/Disability. VEVRAA Federal Contractor. Company: United Natural Foods Inc. Compensation: UNFI anticipates paying the above-referenced pay rate (or within the above-referenced pay range) for this position. Actual Pay, where applicable, will depend on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, education, experience, training, and any requirements under applicable collective bargaining agreements. UNFI is committed to transparency in pay in compliance with applicable state/provincial and local laws. Benefits: Candidates hired into this position will also be eligible to participate in the following benefits programs: Paid Time Off; Sick Time; paid holidays and parental leave; 401K Program (or retirement savings plan if in Canada); medical, dental, vision, life, and accidental death/dismemberment insurance; short-term and long-term disability insurance program, Flexible Spending Account and/or Health Savings Account (U.S. only), subject to meeting the eligibility requirements and the terms and conditions of these programs, and subject to any requirements under applicable collective bargaining agreements. Sales Positions Only: For sales positions that are commission-based, the above range is an estimate of total potential commission-based compensation during an associate’s first year, but UNFI offers an introductory period minimum of $680 per week. After the introductory period, as a 100% commission-based role, there is no set salary. UNFI’s commission plans are uncapped and average earnings vary depending on territory and sales achieved, among other factors. UNFI’s compensation, benefits, and paid time off policies are subject to change in the Company’s sole discretion, consistent with applicable law. 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 or for Canadian applicants in accordance with provincial human rights legislation.

Keywords: United Natural Foods, Stratford , Vice President Automation, Engineering , Providence, Connecticut