Responsible for bringing Communications and Public Affairs strategic plan to life in divisions to enhance/protect Kroger reputation and elevate Kroger's unique story. Help the division and 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 activities. Work closely with Communications and Public Affairs team network to execute initiatives designed to drive sales, retain associates and help end hunger in their operating communities. Assist and support Head of Communications and Public Affairs in division geographies, including the support of crisis and executive communications. Demonstrate the company's core values of respect, honesty, integrity, diversity, inclusion, and safety.Minimum

• Bachelor's Degree communications, journalism, PR, marketing or political science
• 3+ 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 experience in retail or corporate environment
• Previous work within communications or public relations agencies

• Provide advice/strategies and actionable recommendations to division leadership regarding emerging community/consumer issues that may affect the company's business/reputation
• Collaborate with Communication & Public Affairs network, regional and function leaders to align/execute corporate priorities/initiatives and manage potential crises/reputational issues
• Serve as backup for Head of Communications & Public Affairs
• Serve as a strategic communications leader, spokesperson and crisis communications coordinator for secondary/tertiary geographies in division
• Collaborate and support Head of C& PA to develop/execute comprehensive strategic communication strategies that drive earned media, support brand image, drive sales, engage associates and builds community relationships
• Cultivate relationships with local media, consumer bloggers and external stakeholders that influence the company's reputation in local ancillary geographies
• 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) to better reach
• all associates and integrate associate storytelling in strategic communications
• Develop executive communications for division Vice Presidents to drive business outcomes and reputation, as needed
• 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 supports the company's key priorities
• Travel 25% of time throughout division, 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