Job Overview:

The Supply Chain Customer Manager is the primary point of contact, within UNFI nationally for private label Supplier and Customer brand teams. This position is responsible for the development, management and execution of existing and new brands that are part of the private label programs. The position is also responsible for the collection and execution of all required supplier agreements and documents with any supplier doing business with UNFI. Functions as a supply chain professional with primary responsibility to manage specific suppliers and their products.

Reviews and executes logistics requirements and purchasing plans designed to maximize the coordination with purchasing and operations. Reviews and coordinates complex purchase requests, including requests for quotes, bids, proposals, complex one-time orders, and complex multi-term orders in accordance with company policies. Independently handles projects for purchases up to a designated dollar amount.

Job Responsibilities:

• Prepares all aspects of procurement solicitations for products which includes terms and conditions, scope of work, insurance and bonding requirements, and compliance with company policies.

• Negotiates with suppliers establishing price, delivery, quantity, payment, scope of work, change orders; research sources of supply; determines sole source validity and methods of procurement action.

• Provides administrative oversight during contract performance.

• Liaison between vendor sales managers for procurement procedures, order status, and problem resolution; advises on cost effective alternatives.

• Resolves problems relative to procurement actions such as disputes and vendors' protests in conformance with contract, and in coordination with legal counsel when indicated.

• Maintains records in accordance with established policies and procedures and audit guidelines.

• Represents the company at trade fairs, attends purchasing meetings and presents seminars for presentation of company business.

• Manages and/or coordinates multiple projects which contract for specialized services, are large in scope, or involve major acquisitions.

• Assists lower-level buyers with complex procurements.

• May lead, guide, and train staff and interns performing related work.

• Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned. May validate, reconcile, and process receiving reports, vendor invoices, and other payment documents.

• Assumes responsibility for implementation of private label policies. Ensures effective ongoing communication with private label suppliers to maintain high level of support.

• Liaison between private label brands suppliers and UNFI finance department and deductions team to ensure adequate resolution and response time to suppliers.

• Executes supplier agreements and implements policies in accordance with company guidelines.

• Performs other job duties as required

Education/ Certifications/or Equivalent combination of education training and experience:

• Bachelor's degree in marketing, business, or a related field

Experience:

• Seven or more years of related business development in category management, sales, purchasing or related fields

• Progressive managerial experience is desired

• Experience in managing supplier relationships with an associated experience in supplier mentoring and training

• System Implementation Preferred

Knowledge:

• Excellent understanding of market penetration strategies, market development techniques, and market segmentation strategies, coupled with a high-level insight to retailer trends and consumer behaviors

• Excellent negotiation and management skills

• Excellent understanding and knowledge of promotional techniques, protocols, pricing strategies, distribution channels, and competitive set

• Strong knowledge of manufacturing, manufacturing costs, and product price components

Skills/ Abilities:

• Excellent leadership abilities.

• Able to organize, coordinate, and direct projects

• Strong oral and written communications abilities

• Solid analytical and technical skills

• Excellent presentation skills

• Computer literate with ability to use all related hardware and software

• Some travel may be required.

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.