WINE STEWARD

Kroger is a leading American grocery retailer with a rich history dating back over a century, starting from a small Cincinnati grocery store to becoming the nation's largest grocer. With nearly 2,800 stores operating under 28 different names across 35 states, Kroger is more than just a grocery store – it's a community hub dedicated to feeding the human spirit. The company prides itself on embracing diversity, innovation, and a passion for food and people, striving to create amazing experiences not only for customers but also for its associates and the communities it serves.

As part of the Kroger family, employees are valued and supported through a comprehensive benefits package designed to promote their physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing. Kroger emphasizes flexible scheduling options for both full-time and part-time roles, enabling associates to balance work and personal life effectively. The company also offers significant tuition reimbursement opportunities, employee assistance programs, and valuable discounts, fostering personal and professional growth within a supportive environment.

The role of a Wine and Beer Specialist at Kroger is a dynamic position focused on creating an outstanding customer experience, specifically within the wine and beer department. This role is pivotal in establishing and maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming environment where customers feel valued and supported in their purchasing decisions. The Wine and Beer Specialist assists in achieving departmental sales and profitability goals while maintaining high-quality assurance standards. Embracing Kroger's Customer 1st strategy, the specialist encourages associates to deliver excellent customer service and demonstrates the company's core values including respect, honesty, integrity, diversity, inclusion, and safety.

Duties are extensive and include promoting trust and respect among associates and customers, answering inquiries regarding product varieties and industry trends, and providing knowledgeable recommendations on imported and domestic wines and beers. The specialist is expected to offer product samples in compliance with company and legal guidelines to enhance customer discovery and satisfaction. Additionally, the role involves collaborating with store chefs for events like wine tastings and managing product displays and promotions related to seasonal and special sales.

Maintaining optimal product storage conditions such as proper temperatures in cases and coolers is crucial in this role, along with diligent record keeping of temperature logs. The Wine and Beer Specialist also plays a key role in reinforcing safety programs by identifying and reporting unsafe conditions or incidents, including theft, fraud, or any other illegal activity.

Candidates must be at least 21 years of age and possess a high school education or equivalent, with experience in retail and specifically with wine and beer products. The ability to handle stressful situations effectively, communicate clearly, and pass a company-administered wine test are essential for success. Proficiency in a second language is considered a valuable asset, broadening customer engagement and understanding.

Joining Kroger as a Wine and Beer Specialist means becoming part of a team that values purpose-driven individuals eager to grow their careers in the retail grocery industry. With the company’s strong focus on associate growth and development, there is vast potential for professional advancement through numerous training programs and diverse career pathways. This opportunity is ideal for those who are passionate about food, drink, and customer service, and want to contribute to a company that actively supports their personal and professional development.