Operations Sales Specialist - Produce

Operations Sales Specialist – Produce

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The Operations Specialist is a certified Subject Matter Expert (SME) responsible for mastering all tools, applications, and processes within their assigned department(s). This expertise enables them to effectively train and develop Department Managers and Store Directors. The Operations Specialist is accountable for maintaining Department Standards and overseeing P&L performance for the department(s) they supervise.

• Serve as the certified Subject Matter Expert (SME) in all aspects of department operations, ensuring proficiency in tools, applications, and processes.
• Spend 80% or more of the work week in stores to train, develop, and mentor Department Managers and staff, enhancing their skills and capabilities.
• Ensure department standards are consistently met to maximize sales and profitability, including maintaining full, conditioned, fresh, clean, and well-signed displays and sections, while adhering to the Marketing and Merchandising plans provided by the Corporate Team.
• Proactively identify training and knowledge gaps within the team and leverage expertise to close them.
• Provide consistent, actionable feedback on department presentation, cleanliness, and compliance with company policies, procedures, and standards.
• Monitor department staffing levels, offering guidance to the Store Director and District Manager on staffing needs and requirements.
• Provide clear, concise communication to store associates and leadership regarding department requirements and respond to team questions and concerns in a timely manner.
• Guide the implementation of new merchandising programs and strategies, ensuring store teams have all required information and are executing as directed.

• Regularly monitor competitor activities and report findings back to the Corporate Teams.
• Offer fact‑based input on marketing and merchandising strategies to Corporate Teams.
• Assist with opening, closing, and remodeling stores as needed, ensuring smooth transitions and operational readiness.
• Monitor expenses across departments and provide guidance to ensure stores meet budgetary goals.
• Ensure proper handling of products and implement effective shrink reduction strategies to minimize unnecessary shrinkage.
• Establish and maintain efficient workflows across all department areas, including Coolers, Freezers, Storage Areas, Backrooms, and Production Areas.

• Bachelor's degree in business preferred.
• Previous Department Manager and/or Store Director experience preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse groups of individuals.
• A marketing‑oriented mindset, coupled with strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Proficient in basic mathematical analysis to support decision‑making.
• Proven leadership skills, with the ability to inspire, guide, and motivate teams.
• Capable of setting clear objectives, providing follow‑up, and holding Department Managers and Associates accountable to achieve organizational goals.

This position requires the associate to perform all duties at one of our UNFI locations, such as a store or office.

There may be slight travel with this role.

• 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.

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.…