Head of Communications & Public Affairs – Fred Meyer

Head of Communications & Public Affairs – Fred Meyer

Portland, OR, United States (On-site)

Job Description

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.

Responsibilities

• 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
• 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

Qualifications

Minimum

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

Job Info

• Job Identification
• Job Category Corporate Affairs/Communications
• Posting Date 03/12/2026, 07:43 PM
• Locations 1550 S Redwood Rd, Salt Lake City, UT, 84104, US (On-site)

The Kroger Family of Companies offers comprehensive benefits to support your Associate Well-Being, including Physical, Emotional, Financial and more. We'll help you thrive, with access to:

• A wide range of healthcare coverage, including affordable, comprehensive medical, dental, vision and prescription coverage, through company plans or collective bargaining agreement plans.
• Flexible scheduling in full- and part-time roles with paid time off, including holiday and sick pay based on eligibility and length of service.
• Emotional and financial support with free counseling through our Employee Assistance Program and free, confidential financial tools and coaching.
• Valuable associate discounts on purchases, including food, travel, technology and so much more.
• Up to $21,000 in tuition reimbursement over your career, through our industry-leading Continuing Education program.
• Vast potential for growth, through an abundance of industry-leading training programs and diverse career pathways.

From one tiny Cincinnati grocery store more than a century ago, we’ve grown into what today is the nation’s largest grocer with nearly 2,800 stores in 35 states operating under 28 different names. As America’s grocer, we take pride in bringing diverse teams with a passion for food and people together with one common purpose: To Feed the Human Spirit. With a history of innovation, we work tirelessly to create amazing experiences for our customers, communities AND each other, with food at the heart of it all.

Here, people matter. That’s why we strive to provide the ingredients you need to create your own recipe for success at work and in life. We help feed your future by providing the value and care you need to grow. If you’re caring, purpose-driven and hungry to learn, your potential is unlimited.

Whether you’re seeking a part-time position or a new career path, we’ve got a fresh opportunity for you. Apply today to become part of our Kroger family!

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