Director of Operations Automation - Remote

UNFI Canada; Providence (RI); Remote; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the distribution sector is seeking a Director of Operations Automation to oversee automation solutions across their network. This role involves managing project implementations, leading a team, and optimizing system performance. Candidates should possess a relevant degree and extensive experience in supply chain and automation environments, with strong leadership and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5+ years in distribution operations or supply chain.
• Experience in mechanization and automation environments.
• Proven leadership of teams and direct reports preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the delivery of automation projects and manage vendor relationships.
• Develop and lead the automation execution team.
• Support system launch and operation, including training and inventory planning.

Skills

Leadership

Problem Solving

Communication

Relationship Building

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, supply chain, IT, or related field

MBA preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

BI tools

AutoCAD

Job description

Purpose

The Director of Operations Automation will oversee the deployment and operationalization of automation solutions aligned with business needs, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget as per the capital expenditure plan. The role involves managing all aspects of implementation, vendor coordination, system testing, and support during launch and go-live phases. It requires collaboration with operations teams, business leaders, and stakeholders to support business growth and optimize system performance across distribution centers (DCs). The incumbent will lead a team of Senior Automation Managers to execute multiple projects across the network.

Essential Functions

1. Develop and lead the automation execution team: Provide coaching and mentorship to foster a cohesive team, set expectations, and ensure successful project delivery, including safety, quality, and customer experience improvements.
2. Lead automation project implementations: Oversee the delivery of automation projects, manage vendor relationships, and coordinate installation, commissioning, and testing.
3. Support system launch and operation: Assist with training, inventory planning, and ramp-up activities; maintain strong vendor relationships to ensure system performance and enhancements.
4. Contribute to automation roadmap: Support solution design, planning, and development; identify barriers and opportunities for system improvements.
5. Develop data-driven operational plans: Collaborate with teams to optimize automation system utilization, establish KPIs, and implement reporting tools.
6. Perform other relevant duties as required.

Education/Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, supply chain, IT, or related field; equivalent work experience acceptable.
• MBA preferred but not required.

Experience

• Minimum 5+ years in distribution operations or supply chain, with experience in mechanization and automation environments.
• Background in engineering, project management, and vendor management preferred.
• Experience in construction, facilities, AutoCAD, multi-project leadership, and system implementation is advantageous.
• Proven leadership of teams and direct reports preferred.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Knowledge of warehouse management and automation systems, including WMS, WCS, CMMS, and related technologies.
• Experience in warehouse automation, process flow design, SOP creation, and system integration.
• Strong communication, leadership, problem-solving, and relationship-building skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, BI tools, project scheduling, and flowcharting software.
• Knowledge of lean, six sigma, and process management is a plus.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and travel as required (>75%).

Physical Environment/Demands

• Travel within the US and occasionally outside the US.
• Work in distribution centers and temperature-controlled office environments.
• Physical ability to stand, walk, sit, and handle equipment as needed.
• Exposure to temperature ranges from -20°F to 90°F depending on operations.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or protected veteran/disability status. UNFI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and VEVRAA Federal Contractor.