UNFI is looking for a Learning & Development Partner to join a team dedicated to the development and upskilling of Wholesale teams. The Learning & Partner will be responsible for the design, development, and deployment of UNFI’s processes and systems and leadership development programs. This role will work closely with and collaborate with other members of the Learning & Development team as well as business stakeholders, to strengthen the capabilities of our leaders. In their role, the Learning & Development Partner will continue to iterate, innovate, and evolve UNFI’s existing portfolio of programs for leaders in all departments and at varying levels.
The Learning & Development Partner will be responsible for identifying key talent gaps as well as maintaining a pulse on the changing environment to anticipate future competency needs for the organization. They will ensure the consistent transfer of knowledge to both associates and business leaders according to UNFI’s key priorities—through both the resourceful sourcing and development of content, as well as through strategic program design and delivery. The Learning & Development Partner will collaborate closely with other Learning & Development team members to support the customization and tailoring of materials for the functional areas of the business, ultimately ensuring that the learning materials are relevant, timely, and applicable. This role will also work to address business concerns and leadership skill gaps through ongoing measurement and evaluation of programs.
Job Responsibilities:
- Designs and develop leadership development programs, which may include program design, needs assessments, instructional design, and presentation design.
- Manages the deployment of leadership development programs, which may include communication development, program management, facilitation, coaching, and measurement and evaluation.
- Tailors communication and training approach to various audiences and learner needs (by function and level).
- Leverages experiential learning best practices (scenario-based learning, storytelling, realistic examples of application, common misunderstandings) to best engage adult learners and ensure successful transfer of knowledge.
- Continues to broaden depth of understanding of business functions, leadership development best practices, and blended learning techniques.
- Gathers insights and observations on leadership development needs, strengths, and opportunities, as well as the effectiveness of ongoing learning interventions.
- Maintains strong professional relationships with key stakeholders throughout the business to ensure successful transfer of knowledge and upskilling.
- Performs other relevant job duties as required.
Job Requirements:
Education/Certifications
- Bachelor's degree preferred or combination of education, training, and experience.
Experience:
- 3-4 years of experience in human resources, learning and development, talent management, or a related role, creating and executing programs.
- Strong Project management skills – managing and executing learning solutions, stakeholders across functions.
- Experience working in Sales or with Sales and Sales Training.
- Experience designing, developing, and deploying systems and software, training, and leadership development training and programs.
- Strong understanding of adult learning best practices, modern classroom, online, and eLearning.
- Strong organizational skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with emphasis on relationship management, business partnerships, and workplace collaboration.
- Ability to work on multiple tasks, manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and work independently under minimal supervision.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in Wholesale or Sales.
- Salesforce, Media Technology like Canva, and Articulate programs are a plus.
Knowledge/ Skills/ Abilities:
- Experience conducting needs assessments and post-training measurement and evaluation (surveys, focus groups, etc.).
- Experience with leadership program design, instructional design, and blended learning.
- Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel).
- Working knowledge of AI competency or Articulate.
- Experience managing a team or in a people leadership role is desired but not required.
- Familiarity with innovative learning technologies is desirable (virtual training, virtual reality, learning gamification) and media technology like Canva.
- 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 (minor):
- This position will require the associate to travel to company offices, distribution centers, or other locations for specific meetings or other business reasons, up to 25%.
Physical Environment/Demands:
Office Roles:
- Most work is performed in a temperature-controlled office environment.
- Incumbent may sit for long periods 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 during the normal workday.
- Stooping, bending, twisting, and reaching may be required in the completion of job duties.
About UNFI: We are North America’s premier grocery wholesaler, delivering the widest variety of fresh, branded, and owned brand products to community grocers and retail chains alike. A pioneer in natural and organic foods, we are growing and transforming to meet the needs of an evolving workplace. Our 29,000+ employees work across America in our 50 Distribution Centers and corporate offices. Learn more: Organic, Natural and Conventional Food | Wholesale Food Distributors | UNFI
Benefits: Competitive 401k, Flexible PTO, Remote, Health benefits – first of the month following 30 days of employment, mentorship program/developmental opportunities, etc.
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.
