Associate Merchandise Planner Jobs in Rhode Island

Job Description

Job Summary: The Field Merchandise Team Leader will plan, direct and execute the merchandising and operations startup of new stores, remodels, full store resets, equipment enhancements, special projects and closings. Supervise the daily activities of field merchandisers, store associates and vendors to meet project timelines. Ensure merchandising standards and communication processes are followed. Reviews merchandising and equipment plans for accuracy and works with Retail Space Planning, Floor Planning and Construction Teams to resolve concerns.

• Plan, direct and execute the merchandising and operations startup of new stores and remodels. Participate in kickoff meetings and weekly touch points with Store Operations. Build Lozier and Metro shelving, stock all small wares, and oversee restocking of the store including McLane and DSD vendor product and fuel supplies. Manage Store Operations support, third party labor resources as well as merchandising team labor. Direct new store set up and the execution of merchandising to the highest standards.

• Plan and implement full store resets. Determine equipment and fixture needs based on surveys and proposed plan, review fixture availability in storage locations and order additional equipment as required. Conduct post reset walk with Store Operations and update equipment survey.

• Coordinate DSD and set up vendor equipment and fixture delivery to stores for resets, new stores, remodels. Resolve vendor product issues to ensure product is 100% in stock. Ensure vendors provide credit and pick up product for closings. Work in partnership with the DSD Supply Chain and the Merchandising and Floor Planning Coordinator.

• Manage the transfer, donation and recycling processes for all closings, remodel stores as well as full store closings. Work in partnership with Store Operations Impact Planning Team on product donations and Facilities Team on shelving recycling.

• Ensure equipment stress tests are conducted for all new stores and remodels. Work with Construction and the Contact Center to resolve issues prior to opening. Document issues and trends through the iPad survey to provide feedback through partnerships with Operations Engineering.

• Provide insight to construction for building punch walk for new stores and remodels. Conduct and resolve merchandising punch walk with operations. Complete all required surveys via the iPad.

• Ensure plan-o-gram compliance at store level. Coach Store Management Team on merchandising standards at store level. Provide merchandising support as requested to Store Operations.

• Conduct surveys as scheduled by Merchandising Logistics Coordinator or Merchandising Supervisors for Category Teams or other internal partners.

• Provide overall direction and support for team. Monitor and assess individual work in accordance with high standards of excellence. Provide feedback, coaching, support, opportunities for development, complete performance appraisals, take corrective action when appropriate, and participate in hiring decisions.

• Work cross functionally with Strategic Sourcing, Retail Space Planning, Category Teams, and Construction to identify process improvements. Plan major project initiatives as assigned. Test new processes and provide insight.

• Lead independent projects and task as assigned by management.

Essential Functions:

• Strong project management skills, ability to prioritize and meet deadlines
• Ability to work well individually as well as in a team environment
• Proven leadership skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to motivate, coach and develop others
• Detail oriented and strong organizational skills
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
• Establish and maintain a working environment conducive to positive morale, individual style, quality, creativity, and teamwork
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and put away merchandise and equipment on a consistent basis
• Current Driver's License and ability to travel independently by car to all locations
• Hours vary, some nights and weekends required
• Willingness to travel and overnight stays may be required

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree preferred
• 3 - 5 years related project management/leadership experience
• Experience with merchandising plans, equipment plans, JDA and SAP
• Strong PC application skills, specifically in Microsoft Office

Wawa will provide reasonable accommodation to complete an application upon request, consistent with applicable law. If you require an accommodation, please contact our Associate Service Center at asc@wawa.com.

Wawa, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Wawa maintains a work environment in which Associates are treated fairly and with respect and in which discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated. In accordance with federal, state and local laws, we recruit, hire, promote and evaluate all applicants and Associates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, familial status, marital status, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity or expression, citizenship status, disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, domestic or sexual violence victim status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Unlawful discrimination will not be a factor in any employment decision.