Director, Facilities Planning and Automation

Position: Director, Facilities Planning and Automation - US
SUMMARY OF JOB PURPOSE

This role is responsible for the tactical execution and continuous improvement of warehouse infrastructure and automation systems. The individual will serve as the subject matter expert for rack standards and practices, Miniload system operations, and emerging warehouse automation technologies. They will collaborate closely with Operations, Construction, Field Maintenance, and EHS to ensure safe, efficient, and scalable solutions across the network.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Rack Systems Oversight

• Develop, implement, and maintain rack standards and best practices in coordination with Operations, Construction, Field Maintenance and EHS teams.

• Lead rack design initiatives, including layout optimization and structural integrity assessments.

• Chair Sysco Rack Taskforce.

• Manage procurement processes and oversee installation projects to ensure compliance with safety and operational requirements.

Capacity Planning & Utilization

• Manage site-level slotting and throughput capacity utilization reporting to support operational efficiency.

• Develop and maintain long-range capacity forecasting models to guide infrastructure and automation investments.

• Partner with Operations and Planning teams to align capacity strategies with business growth and seasonal demand.

• Identify constraints and recommend tactical solutions to optimize space and throughput across the network.

Miniload System Management

• Monitor and report on Miniload system performance, identifying trends and opportunities for improvement.

• Chair a cross functional Miniload committee made up of SC Engineering, operations, BT, and maintenance to ensure actions are taken to maintain system uptime and reliability.

• Deliver training programs and provide field support to operational teams using Miniload systems.

• Develop long-term strategies for Miniload system lifecycle management, including end-of-life planning and replacement roadmaps. Work with Maintenance and Field operations to capture requisite costs and operating metrics to support decision making.

Warehouse Automation Strategy

• Explore and evaluate emerging warehouse automation technologies, including robotics, AS/RS, and AI-driven solutions.

• Build business cases and lead pilot programs to test new technologies in live environments.

• Cultivate relationships with vendors and stay current on industry trends and innovations.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align automation initiatives with broader supply chain strategies.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in warehouse infrastructure, automation systems, or industrial engineering.

• Strong project management skills with the ability to lead cross-functional initiatives.

• Familiarity with safety standards and operational protocols in warehouse environments.

• Experience with data analysis and capacity modeling tools.

• Excellent communication and vendor management skills.

• Experience leading a team of technical specialists, project managers and third party personnel. (6 to 18 depending on project load)

REQUIRED MINIMUM EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 15 years work experience.

• BS degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Operations Research, or equivalent work experience required.

• MBA preferred.

CERTIFICATIONS AND/OR TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Computer literacy including Excel, Power point, MS Word and Outlook.

• CAD and SQL.

• Requires technical warehouse rack engineering and slotting acumen in order to account for labor, capital, product usage and inventory in decision-making.

ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Leadership

• Self-motivated with the ability to overcome obstacles to achieve objectives and complete projects on time.

• Highly organized, able to set priorities and manage time effectively.

• Capable of staffing, training, and leading a professional team to achieve departmental goals.

• Skilled in influencing stakeholders at all organizational levels.

• Embraces and drives change, creating breakthrough strategies and plans.

• Fosters a high-performance culture and coaches team members for growth.

Language Skills

• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively across all…