Produce Project Manager

POSITION SUMMARY:The Produce Project Manager is responsible for leading the day-to-day execution, support, communication, and continuous improvement of the project and its objectives. This role serves as a central point of coordination between divisions, suppliers, replenishment teams, category managers, merchandising and cross-functional partners to ensure seamless execution of category initiatives and operational processes.ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:This hybrid position requires you to work at Kroger’s Corporate Office (Store Support Center) at least two days per week.Program and Project ManagementServe as the primary coordinator for ongoing program execution and operational supportDevelop, maintain, and communicate project timelines, milestones, and action plansLead follow-up activities to ensure deliverables are completed on time and issues are quickly resolvedTrack risks, dependencies, and opportunities to improve program performanceDivision Support & CommunicationAct as the primary point of contact for division questions and operational supportCoordinate communication between divisions and cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and execution consistencyFacilitate issue resolution and escalate concerns when necessaryOperational ExecutionProvide planogram (POG) support and follow-up on execution-related questionsManage item setup processes, monitor progress, and drive timely completion of outstanding requestsMaintain and update In/Out management tools and documentationSupport retail setupSystems & Technical SupportSupport SATH, CAO, and other category management and replenishment systemsCoordinate activations, troubleshooting, and operational maintenance activitiesPartner with internal teams to ensure system changes are implemented accurately and efficientlyAssist with EEMs-related activities and process improvementsSupplier & Commercial ManagementServe as a communication liaison with suppliers regarding operational needs, timelines, and deliverablesCoordinate requests for proposal (RFPs) and supplier-related documentationMonitor execution, follow up on outstanding supplier actions, and ensure timely resolution of issuesDocumentation & Process ManagementMaintain and update the Booking Guide and related operational documentationDevelop communication templates and tracking toolsIdentify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce manual work, and enhance program visibilityCross-Functional CollaborationLead and participate in recurring cross-functional meetingsDocument action items, track commitments, and ensure follow-up completionPartner with merchandising, replenishment, sourcing, operations, suppliers, and category teams to drive successful program executionMust be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodationMINIMUM POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:4-year degree in Business Marketing, Operations, Supply Chain, Economics or equivalent education preferred2+ years of retail grocery experience preferredProficient Microsoft office applications including Outlook, Excel and PowerPointCapacity to learn multiple computer systems and web based applicationsExperience functioning in a corporate office environmentStrong organizational and teamwork skillsAdaptable to modernizations in technologyAble to absorb new information and quickly pivot in directionCapability to collaborate with others and contribute effectively to a teamExpert organizational, analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving skillsHighly motivated self-starter who can work with minimal supervisionAbility to communicate effectively with all levels of an audience from senior level executives, to administrative supportExperience generating detailed reports and delivering a summary of your findings in both spreadsheet and presentation formAbility to work under pressure, meet deadlines, prioritize and multi-taskMINIMUM PHYSICAL ABILITIES:Must be able to:remain standing/sitting for several hours at a timelift 10-15 lbs. occasionallyDESIRED PREVIOUS JOB EXPERIENCE:A blend of grocery merchandising and data analysis experience are desiredMinimum of 2 years’ grocery experience in a merchandising capacityDemonstrated and documented accomplishments in the area of category sales, marketing, management, product development, negotiations, vendor relations, procurement, distribution and merchandisingCOMPETENCIES/SKILLS:Some of the Competencies/Skills required to successfully perform this position are:Adaptability – maintaining effectiveness when experiencing major changes in work tasks or the work environment; adjusting effectively to work within new work structures, processes, requirements or culturesBuilding Strategic Working Relationships – developing and using collaborative relationships to facilitate the accomplishment of work goalsBuilding Trust – interacting with Kroger employees, customers and suppliers in a way that gives Kroger Division and Corporate Management confidence in one’s intentions and those of the organizationCommunication – clearly conveying information and ideas through a variety of media to individuals or groups in the English languageCustomer Focus – making Kroger customers and their needs a primary focus of one’s actions; developing and sustaining productive relationships with Kroger employees as well as the suppliers that we representDecision Making – identifying and understanding issues, problems and opportunities; comparing data from different sources to draw conclusions; using effective approaches for choosing a course of action or developing appropriate solutions; taking action that is consistent with available facts, constraints and probable consequencesInclusion – appreciating and leveraging the capabilities, insights and ideas of all individuals; working effectively with individuals of diverse style, ability and motivation for a direct effect on business resultsInitiating Action – taking prompt action to accomplish objectives; taking action to achieve goals beyond what is required; being proactive; generating innovative solutions in work situationsLeadership – ability to recognize and provide training opportunities; give clear direction to accomplish assigned tasks; hold others to high standards of accountability and address issues when needed in a way that encourages, not discourages the employeeNegotiation – effectively exploring alternatives and positions to reach outcomes that gain the support and acceptance of all partiesSelf-Starter – working the majority of the time without direct supervision; prioritizing, organizing and completing workload accurately within allotted time periodWork Standards – setting high standards of performance for self and others; assuming responsibility and accountability for successfully completing assignments or tasks; self-imposing standards of excellence rather than having standards imposed #J-18808-Ljbffr P.L. Marketing, Inc.