Head of Communications & Public Affairs – Fred Meyer

Responsible for bringing Communications and Public Affairs strategic plan to life in divisions to enhance/protect Kroger’s reputation and elevate Kroger's unique story. Help the division & Kroger execute an ambitious Communications and Public Affairs strategy to increase visibility and trust, deepen its associates’ connections to the company, expand its license to operate, and be recognized among the most reputable and influential companies in America. Oversee stakeholder engagement and community activities. Work closely with Communications and Public Affairs network to execute initiatives designed to drive sales, associate retention and initiatives that help end hunger in their communities. Manage crisis communications and executive communications to preserve/enhance the company's reputation. Demonstrate the company’s core values of respect, honesty, integrity, diversity, inclusion, and safety. 

• Provide advice/strategies and actionable recommendations to division leadership regarding emerging community/consumer
• issues that may affect the company's business/reputation
• Collaborate with Communications & Public Affairs network, region and function leaders to align/execute corporate priorities/initiatives and manage potential crises/reputational issues
• Serve as a strategic communications leader, spokesperson and crisis communications
• coordinator for division 
• Develop executive communications for division president to drive business outcomes and reputation
• Cultivate relationships with local media, consumer bloggers and external stakeholders that positively influence and strengthen the company's reputation in local markets
• Develop/execute comprehensive strategic communication strategies that drive earned media, support brand image, drive sales, engages associates and builds community relationships
• Align with Government Relations team and build/manage relationships with local elected officials to strengthen relations and influence policies that support key business objectives
• Leverage internal channels and platforms (e.g., web, video, email, social, print) and develop strategic communications aligned with business strategies to better reach all associates and integrate associate storytelling in strategic communications 
• Support corporate responsible business initiatives by building local collaborations and
• communicating company progress in local geographies
• Develop/execute visible community engagement programs that enhance the company's reputation as a generous/caring retailer and that support the company's key priorities
• Manage/guide community funds budget comprised of foundation, corporate, associate and
• customer contributions
• Travel 25% throughout division as needed, occasional travel to corporate office or other divisions
• Ability to manage and work cooperatively in high-paced environment
• Ability to manage conflict through de-escalation skills and strategic communications 
• Ability to act with honesty and integrity regarding customer and business information
• Ability to operate within company’s framework, align and innovate new strategic initiatives, and seek assistance when necessary to resolve customer and business issues
• Provide support and assistance through direct interaction with minors, individuals with special needs, and/or older adults
• Must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation 

Minimum

• Bachelor's Degree communications, journalism, PR, marketing or political science
• 7+ years of experience in Communications, Public Affairs or similar role
• Excellent oral/written communication skills
• Strong planning/organizational skills
• Ability to analyze/solve problems

Desired

• Communications or Public Affairs leader in retail or corporate environment
• Previous work with elected officials, government or campaigns
• Previous work within or managing PR agencies