Job Abstract

Req ID: 440305 

BASIC PURPOSE: The Merchandising Project Manager will manage major projects and new program rollouts varying in size for the Merchandising team. This position would also include new store, raze and rebuild, and strategic remodel construction partnership; project cost tracking; and collaboration with cross-functional teams to drive financial performance and growth. This person will manage all project communications with and to the field and his/her expertise will be instrumental in driving the successful development and execution of merchandising initiatives.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage, maintain all projects/rollouts for Merchandising team.
• Lead and oversee key merchandising projects and initiatives, ensuring timely execution and delivery of results.
• Track and report project progress.
• Work with Construction to maintain prototypes and advise on layouts from a Merchandising perspective. Manage updates and facilitate with Category Managers.
• Partner with Construction and FM department to direct Merchandising initiatives both in new stores and major FM remodels. Approval on final Merchandising layouts
• Observes and learns field processes to gain a better understanding of impacts to the field as applicable with ability to assist and resolve field issues to ensure project quality, customer and employer satisfaction.
• Visit project sites to perform inspections, verify existing conditions during project design, and provide support during execution.
• Spearhead project schedule development; evaluate milestones for technical, equipment and documentation deliverables.
• Independently manage and execute project development tasks, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and compliance with project requirements and industry standards.
• Collaborate with construction, category managers and analytics to identify scope gaps.
• Cooperate with contractors, and vendors to procure materials, equipment, and services necessary for project implementation; support construction interface coordination.
• Experience reviewing and responding to RFIs and change orders.
• Supervise, coordinate, and review project execution providing guidance and support to ensure project success.
• Represent company, project and/or department during client and project management meetings to ensure effective communication.
• Represent Merchandising in SMART meeting, and keep the other departments, and Operations in particular, apprised of all Merchandising activity in stores.
• Implement and manage tools, systems, and workflows to support efficient merchandising operations.
• Monitor budget spending; Track job costs.
• Review & approve applicable department expenses; control financial aspects in conjunction with the accounting department.
• Other duties assigned as needed.

      EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Experience:
  • Previous experience in project management and retail (3+ years). Preferred experience in reading CAD drawings and understanding of basic architectural drawings.
  • Background and/or strong understanding of retail and marketing.
  • Experience managing a project from start to finish, including managing the budget for each project. 
  • Demonstrated experience working well in a close team environment.

     SKILLS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Skills:
  • Excellent customer service and active listening skills
  • Excellent communication (verbal and written) skills
  • Ability to manage numerous competing demands and projects in a high stress environment.
  • Ability to work with multiple departments and individuals with a sense of urgency.
  • Excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Microsoft Excel.  
  • High attention to detail, with follow through to completion of tasks.
  • Ability to work independently and keep projects moving and relevant parties up-to-speed on changes.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, multitasking capabilities
  • High level of professionalism and customer orientation
  • Possess a demonstrated ability to determine when to refer issues versus handle them personally.
  • Willingness to adapt to several different situations
• Typical Physical Demands:
  • Requires prolonged sitting, some bending and stooping
  • Occasional lifting up to 25 pounds
  • Manual dexterity sufficient to operate a computer keyboard and calculator
  • Requires normal range of hearing and vision

Job Function(s): Corporate 

Love’s has been fueling customers’ journeys since 1964. Innovation and perseverance continue to lead the way for the family-owned and -operated business headquartered in Oklahoma City with more than 40,000 team members in North America and Europe. The company’s core business is travel stops and convenience stores with more than 630 locations in 42 states. Love’s continues its commitment to offer products and services that provide value for professional drivers, fleets, four-wheel customers, RVers, alternative fuel and wholesale fuel customers. Giving back to communities Love’s serves and maintaining an inclusive and diverse workplace are hallmarks of the company’s award-winning culture.

The Love’s Family of Companies includes:

• Gemini Motor Transport, one of the industry’s safest trucking fleets.
• Speedco and Love’s Truck Care, the largest oil change and preventive maintenance and total truck care network.
• Musket, a rapidly growing, Houston-based commodities supplier and trader.
• Trillium, a Houston-based alternative fuels expert.
• TVC Pro-driver, a commercial driver’s license (CDL) protection subscription service.