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 Management * Serve as the primary coordinator for ongoing program execution and operational support * Develop, maintain, and communicate project timelines, milestones, and action plans * Lead follow-up activities to ensure deliverables are completed on time and issues are quickly resolved * Track risks, dependencies, and opportunities to improve program performance * Division Support & Communication * Act as the primary point of contact for division questions and operational support * Coordinate communication between divisions and cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and execution consistency * Facilitate issue resolution and escalate concerns when necessary * Operational Execution * Provide planogram (POG) support and follow-up on execution-related questions * Manage item setup processes, monitor progress, and drive timely completion of outstanding requests * Maintain and update In/Out management tools and documentation * Support retail setup * Systems & Technical Support * Support SATH, CAO, and other category management and replenishment systems * Coordinate activations, troubleshooting, and operational maintenance activities * Partner with internal teams to ensure system changes are implemented accurately and efficiently * Assist with EEMs-related activities and process improvements * Supplier & Commercial Management * Serve as a communication liaison with suppliers regarding operational needs, timelines, and deliverables * Coordinate requests for proposal (RFPs) and supplier-related documentation * Monitor execution, follow up on outstanding supplier actions, and ensure timely resolution of issues * Documentation & Process Management * Maintain and update the Booking Guide and related operational documentation * Develop communication templates and tracking tools * Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce manual work, and enhance program visibility * Cross-Functional Collaboration * Lead and participate in recurring cross-functional meetings * Document action items, track commitments, and ensure follow-up completion * Partner with merchandising, replenishment, sourcing, operations, suppliers, and category teams to drive successful program execution _Must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation_ **MINIMUM POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:** * 4-year degree in Business Marketing, Operations, Supply Chain, Economics or equivalent education preferred * 2+ years of retail grocery experience preferred * Proficient Microsoft office applications including Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint * Capacity to learn multiple computer systems and web based applications * Experience functioning in a corporate office environment * Strong organizational and teamwork skills * Adaptable to modernizations in technology * Able to absorb new information and quickly pivot in direction * Capability to collaborate with others and contribute effectively to a team * Expert organizational, analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving skills * Highly motivated self-starter who can work with minimal supervision * Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of an audience from senior level executives, to administrative support * Experience generating detailed reports and delivering a summary of your findings in both spreadsheet and presentation form * Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, prioritize and multi-task **MINIMUM PHYSICAL ABILITIES:** * Must be able to: * remain standing/sitting for several hours at a time * lift 10-15 lbs. occasionally **DESIRED PREVIOUS JOB EXPERIENCE:** * A blend of grocery merchandising and data analysis experience are desired * Minimum of 2 years’ grocery experience in a merchandising capacity * Demonstrated and documented accomplishments in the area of category sales, marketing, management, product development, negotiations, vendor relations, procurement, distribution and merchandising **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 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 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 * Leadership – 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 employee * Negotiation – effectively exploring alternatives and positions to reach outcomes that gain the support and acceptance of all parties * 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