Empire Marketing Strategies, Inc.

Compensation

Full Description

Description About Us: Empire Marketing Strategies has been a leader in delivering exceptional in-store execution for over 40 years, enhancing the customer experience in grocery retail. Operating in all 18 Kroger divisions across the U.S., we partner with some of the world's top brands to optimize their presence in over 2,500 store locations. Our team thrives on tackling diverse challenges in the fast-paced retail industry. We value dedication, talent, and a passion for excellence. Why Join Us? Flexible, M-F Work Schedule, 9 Holidays off Earn a competitive salary plus 80% employer-covered benefits Full-Time Associates: Eligible for medical, dental, vision, life and AD&D insurance, disability coverage, a retirement program, mental health support, paid time off, and 9 paid holidays annually. Part-Time Associates: Eligible for our retirement program and access to mental health support resources A dynamic work environment where you’ll make a real impact. Job Summary: The Our Brands Packaged Meat Merchandising Manager provides strategic support to the Kroger Our Brands and Merchandising teams through sales planning, promotional management, and oversight of existing packaged meat items. This role exercises independent judgment in analyzing item performance, partnering with suppliers and cross-functional teams, and ensuring execution of merchandising plans and timelines. Key responsibilities include managing ongoing item maintenance, leading communication with suppliers and internal partners, and recommending actions that support category growth and operational efficiency. Essential Functions: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions: • Sales Planning & Promotional Execution • Item, Supplier & Supply Chain Management • Cross-Functional Merchandising & New Item Support Core Functions: • Sales Planning & Promotional Execution o Identify and present sales plan recommendations. o Enter promotions into MAPS. o Manage promotional sales forecasts. o Coordinate shipper/display allocations. o Create OB fixture plans (rounder, basket, extender). o Recap promotional performance results and communicate display execution opportunities. o Support event-based selling activities and division requests for additional promotional activity. o Review BCC nominations for accuracy. o Complete weekly Headwinds & Highlights for CSM. o Communicate relevant sales planning activities to division support teams. • Item, Supplier & Supply Chain Management o Partner with Sourcing, Suppliers, and Replenishment on existing item forecasts and new supplier bid opportunities. o Communicate with Replenishment on out-of-stocks, late trucks, supply issues, and inventory management. o Oversee cost change processes. o Manage promotional contracts for KLP items and in-scope KMP. o Resolve operational and invoice-related issues with suppliers and internal partners. o Manage inventory for at-risk or deleted items with the Sourcing Manager. o Identify opportunities for authorized items not selling and address void-fill needs. • Cross-Functional Merchandising & New Item Support o Collaborate with CSM/PM to develop new item merchandising plans and support pipeline planning. o Facilitate product needs for Kroger-related events. Communicate key activities (sales planning, sourcing updates, H&H items) to CSM and internal teams Requirements Education and Experience: • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required. • 4-6 years of CPG/grocery industry management / related experience preferred Required Skills/Abilities: • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret information and communicate outcomes clearly • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook); ability to quickly learn Kroger-specific technology platforms • Strong oral and written communication skills • Demonstrated strategic and creative thinking skills • Strong presentation and written communication skills • Attention to detail with high precision in execution • Ability to follow detailed instructions and manage multiple tasks concurrently • Culinary skills and experience coordinating multiple cooking activities • Adaptability to changing priorities and last-minute adjustments • Self-motivated and able to work both independently and collaboratively Physical Requirements: • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. • Regular use of hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms. • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to see objects, information on computer screens, and/or view written information, from distances of 20-40 feet. Tools and Equipment: • Regular operation of a personal motor vehicle to and from work sites. • Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and web-browsers Work Environment: • Duties are typically performed in an office. • Also required to be in outside facilities, including but not limited to, customer warehouses, kitchens, and manufacturer-client facilities, all of which require more safety precautions than a normal office environment. • Noise levels – typically moderate.