United Natural Foods, Inc. shared Thursday that Mario Maffie has been appointed chief information officer. He will lead the company’s IT team, oversee critical network systems integration work, and help accelerate the use of data and insights in support of UNFI’s customers and suppliers, according to the company.
Maffie will begin the role on October 2 and report to chief operating officer Erin Horvath.
Maffie joins UNFI after having spent the past 24 years in roles of increasing responsibility at Mars Incorporated, the human and pet food manufacturer. Since 2018, he served as Mars’ corporate chief information officer where he oversaw technology for corporate functions, including HR, procurement, finance, and legal. He also managed the company’s technology capabilities related to master data management, reporting and integration services and platforms, automation, and supply chain.
“Our information technology team, the backbone of our operations, is currently engaged in network and systems integration work that is critical to the success of our business and the transformation we have undertaken,” said Horvath, in a statement. “Over the past 20+ years, Mario has been at the forefront of helping Mars harness the power of data, analytics, and automation, ensuring that Mars continually evolved its technology through new platforms and modern capabilities, including AI-based programs, and digital transformation initiatives. He brings a wealth of experience in strategy development and execution and is known for nurturing the talent of tomorrow.”