Sales Support Specialist - Kroger

• Strong ownership mentality and accountability
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
• Proactive, solutions-focused mindset with strong initiative
• Detail-oriented and deadline-driven
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Advanced customer service and problem-solving abilities
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, especially:
  • Excel and Outlook (required)
  • PowerPoint (preferred)

Company Overview

The Bluebird Group is a manufacturer’s representative and consulting firm serving as an invaluable partner to some of the most innovative brands and multinational retailers. We are committed to delivering innovative solutions, focusing on growth, expertise, data, and fostering relationships.

Job Summary

We are seeking a Sales Support Specialist to join our Kroger team. This role is listed as remote but the person must be able to come to the Cincinnati office as needed. This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about retail strategy, thrives in a collaborative environment, and is eager to drive successful business partnerships between Kroger and our vendor partners. If you're looking to grow professionally and make an impact, we’d love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Trade & Promotion Management
  • Enter Trade Point contracts:
    • Kroger Direct Warehouse & DSD: Submit in DemandTec
    • Distributor Processing: Submit to distributors (KeHE, UNFI)
  • Submit cost changes for DSD and Ocado warehouses via Trade Point
  • Complete MAPS Forms for promotions (Mega Events, 5x Digital, GM Displays, etc.)
  • Provide promotional support for Harris Teeter, including PDF submissions via HT Vendor Portal
  • Plan and manage promotions using client proprietary systems
• Vendor & Item Setup
  • Manage vendor setup and IMF processes across platforms (1WS Syndigo, Kroger VIP, Kroger API)
  • Coordinate with CPG item setup teams and brand contact
  • Ensure IMF submissions are on time and properly communicated to Kroger & Harris Teeter
  • Support setup of new vendors and distributors (KeHE, UNFI, IWI, Americold, etc)
• Sales & Reporting Support
  • Clear deductions and track promotional spending in client systems
  • Assist with repayment support (Lavante, Claimtrax portal)
  • Run monthly deduction/promotion reports via Lavante and automated BOTs
  • Generate basic sales/inventory reports using 84.51° and HT data sources
  • Reconcile purchase orders between Kroger and clients
• Operational & Administrative Support
  • Deliver product samples to Kroger GO and PLM as needed
  • Assist sales teams with administrative tasks (e.g., ordering lunch, hosting visiting clients)
  • Ensure office remains well-stocked and organized
  • Provide additional business support as needed to help grow the organization

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of administrative support experience in a Kroger-related environment (preferred)
  
• Associate degree in Business or related field (preferred)
  
• Strong ownership mentality and accountability
  
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
• Proactive, solutions-focused mindset with strong initiative
  
• Detail-oriented and deadline-driven
  
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
  
• Advanced customer service and problem-solving abilities
  
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, especially:
  
  • Excel and Outlook (required)
    
  • PowerPoint (preferred)
    

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Parking/Commuting Stipend (for those working in our Minneapolis office)
• Cell Phone Plan or Reimbursement
• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• HSA (with employer match)
• Short Term and Long-Term Disability
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) (with employer match)

Work Environment

This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The ability to:

• remain seated or standing for extended durations, often more than 50% of the workday. 
  
• constantly operate a computer and other office equipment like printers, calculators, and copiers. 
• use one's hands for tasks like typing, grasping, and using a mouse. 
  
• move items such as boxes of files, office supplies, or other equipment that weigh up to 10-20 pounds. 

Disclaimer: This job description is only a summary of the typical functions of the job, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, and duties. Responsibilities, tasks, and duties of the jobholder might differ from those outlined in the job description and other duties, as assigned, might be required.

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