Project Manager 3 (Packaging)

Job Description

Job Description

SGX, part of the Propelis Group, brings together more than 150 years of combined experience from SGS&Co and SGK, forming a powerhouse in packaging graphics, prepress, and print production. We offer a full suite of solutions, including artwork and file preparation, plate and cylinder production, and metal deco services, supported by advanced technology and a global footprint.

Our Brands Packaging Managers are responsible for ensuring the successful delivery of time-sensitive, impactful, and effective Our Brands packaging communications of a broad range of categories. Essential to their success is the ability to analyze and disseminate vast amounts of information from a multitude of stakeholders to guarantee all expectations meet or exceed the stated requirements. Packaging Managers require exceptional skills in the areas of project execution, design development and resource management. Working alongside members of Kroger’s Our Brands team and SGX, you will be an integral part of developing new packaging concepts that positively and measurably impact the sales/margins of Our Brand Products.

Job Summary

Serves as Project Manager for key accounts and may assist Junior Project Managers as needed. The purpose of this position is to facilitate jobs in the execution phase of our Client’s production needs. As a key facilitator within the supply chain for packaging artwork issues, you will communicate with design firms, printers, On-Site Personnel /Sales and Clients to ensure proper printability for packaging. As a key figure within the process, you will help maintain and improve SGS & Co’s relationship with the Client.

This is an on-site role (5 days per week) in Cincinnati, OH.

Essential Job Functions

• Manage the design development process including all aspects of:
  • Timelines/Deadlines - Manage timelines and deadlines with vendors, design firms, prepress houses, and all key Kroger contacts
  • Make decisions on artwork concepts to check feasibility with dieline restrictions, legal regulations, and print parameters
  • Artwork Routing - Manage Kroger’s online artwork portal in order to move packaging forward in the process
  • Artwork proofing/troubleshooting/revisions
  • Utilize key consumer insights and data to steer compelling and relevant package design
• Drive efficiencies and innovation in all facets of the package design including identification of potential new vendors, updating procedures, and streamlined processes
• Track and manage expenditures associated with package development to stay within budget on artwork
• Convey intended brand messaging of Kroger’s Our Brands portfolio through effective and impactful package design
• Ensure all stakeholders, at both the Kroger Company and SGX, are frequently updated throughout the entire process and made immediately aware of any obstacles to successful completion of any packaging project
• Communicate on a regular basis with the Sr. Packaging Manager, Kroger Branding, Merchandising, Manufacturing teams, and all Vendors
• Professionally and effectively represent SGX to members of the Kroger Company Management, their vendors and suppliers
• Gain expertise in all facets of product packaging in the grocery industry; stay current on those issues that most impact Kroger Our Brands and SGX
• Ensure Kroger’s Customer 1ststrategy is consistently applied
• This position will be required to work onsite at Kroger’s Corporate Office all 5 days per week – there is some flexibility based on your team’s schedule
• Must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation

Minimum Position Qualifications

• 5+ years of Project Management experience in Packaging Design / Packaging Artwork Management required
• 5+ years of Client Services experience required
• CPG or Grocery industry experience highly preferred
• Private brand experience is a plus
• Creative/Design agency experience is a plus
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications including Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Familiar with Adobe software including Illustrator, Photoshop, and Acrobat
• Capacity to multitask and flexible enough to quickly adjust your focus/priorities at will
• Ability to collaborate with a diverse group of people and contribute effectively to a team
• Exceptional organizational, problem solving and project management skills
• Highly motivated self-starter who can work with minimal supervision
• Able to work under tight deadlines and thrive in a high-pressure work environment
• Ability to effectively communicate to any audience including senior level executives

Competencies/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 cultures
• Building Strategic Working Relationships– developing and using collaborative relationships to facilitate the accomplishment of work goals
• Building 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 organization
• Communication– clearly conveying information and ideas through a variety of media to individuals or groups in the English language
• Customer 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 represent
• Decision Making– identifying and understanding issues, problems, and opportunities; comparing data from various 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 consequences
• Inclusion– 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 results
• Initiating Action– taking prompt action to accomplish objectives; taking action to achieve goals beyond what is required; being proactive; generating innovative solutions in work situations
• Self-Starter– working the majority of the time without direct supervision; prioritizing, organizing, and completing workload accurately within allotted time period
• Work 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

About Propelis: Propelis is a portfolio of global marketing services and technology companies with a combined legacy of 150+ years , 2,000+ clients , 9,000 employees , and operations across 30 countries. Propelis provides the scale and support of a global organization while preserving the unique culture and identity of each company in its portfolio.

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EEO Statement: We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need. We offer equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, age, disability or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled.

We strive to make our employment website and application process accessible to all users and applicants. In doing so, we provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and require a reasonable accommodation or assistance completing the application process, please contact a member of our Human Resource Team.

Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several U.S. geographic markets, and we pay differently based on those defined markets. The U.S. pay range for this position is $70,000 - $85,000 USD. Ultimately, in determining pay, we will consider the successful candidate’s location, experience, and other job-related factors.

Group benefits currently include a selection of health care plans with prescription drug coverage, dental plan, vision plan, basic and supplemental life insurance, a flexible spending account for medical and dependent care expenses or a health savings account based on plan selection, short/long term disability and 401(k) Savings Plan.

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