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Job Description

Role Summary:

The Shopper Marketing Senior Manager serves as the critical link between brand strategy and retail execution, bringing the brand to life in-store and driving consumer conversion at the point of purchase. This role is responsible for translating brand campaigns, creative assets, and marketing initiatives into impactful shopper-facing programs across retail environments. By partnering closely with Sales, Brand Marketing, Creative, and Retail Partners, the Shopper Marketing Manager develops and executes strategies that enhance brand visibility, support revenue growth, and create exceptional shopper experiences.

This role requires a highly collaborative, sales-oriented marketer who can balance strategic planning with flawless execution across retailer activations, customer programs, trade marketing initiatives, and industry events.

Role Responsibilities and Essential Functions:

Shopper Marketing Strategy & Planning

• Develop and execute the annual shopper marketing strategy aligned with brand positioning, retailer priorities, category trends, and sales objectives.
• Translate brand campaigns into retailer-specific activation plans that drive awareness, trial, and conversion.
• Build and maintain retailer-specific activation calendars across strategic accounts, distributors, and independent retailers.
• Serve as the liaison between Brand Marketing and Sales, ensuring alignment and providing solutions that support revenue growth.
• Proactively identify and develop programs, tools, and tactics that help sales teams convert strategy into results.
• Partner with Brand Strategy and Insights teams to leverage consumer, category, and retailer data in the development of shopper marketing initiatives.
• Own and manage the shopper marketing budget, including forecasting, allocation by retailer and activation type, invoice management, and financial reconciliation.

Retailer Activation & Execution

• Develop shopper-focused retail marketing materials including brand stores, in-store signage, shelf talkers, displays, endcaps, FSIs, seasonal programs, and digital retail assets.
• Lead execution of promotional programs, point-of-sale materials, retail events, and activation plans in partnership with Sales and Creative teams.
• Collaborate with retailers and sales leadership on joint business planning, co-op marketing programs, and customized promotional initiatives.
• Manage all retailer activation projects from concept through execution, coordinating timelines, deliverables, and stakeholder communication.
• Lead retailer and distributor communications through sales tools, presentations, activation materials, and ongoing correspondence.
• Ensure all retail activations are delivered on time, on budget, and aligned with brand standards.

Trade & Customer Program Development

• Develop customer-specific programs that educate and engage retail employees, including training materials, launch kits, reset support programs, and retailer education tools.
• Lead development of sell-in materials for new product launches, assortment reviews, and category resets.
• Create category insights, selling tools, and brand value proposition materials that support sales growth and retailer engagement.
• Own the retailer education platform, including content development, program participation, engagement, and performance measurement.
• Partner with Sales and Trade Management teams to develop promotional and ROI-focused programs that drive growth.

Trade Show, Distributor & Consumer Event Leadership

• Manage all aspects of trade and consumer show participation, including budgeting, contracts, logistics, shipping, booth planning, and event execution.
• Bring brand strategy to life through compelling event experiences, creative assets, promotional materials, and storytelling.
• Coordinate event planning and execution with internal stakeholders and external vendors to maximize brand impact and return on investment.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Partner closely with Brand Marketing, Creative, Supply Chain, Sales, and Operations teams to ensure seamless execution of shopper marketing initiatives.
• Serve as the internal subject matter expert on retailer expectations, shopper marketing best practices, and pet industry retail trends.
• Foster strong cross-functional relationships that drive alignment, communication, and successful program execution.

Job Description

Role Summary

The Weekend Driver is responsible for safely transporting raw materials and finished goods between company facilities while maintaining the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and reliability. This role ensures timely deliveries and pickups, performs routine vehicle inspections, and assists with loading and unloading activities as needed. A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is preferred but not required. The Weekend Driver will work closely with facility teams to support weekend operations and represent the company with integrity and a strong commitment to safety.

Role Responsibilities and Essential Functions

• Safely transport raw materials and finished goods between the Company's facilities while following all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections and promptly report any maintenance or safety concerns.
• Operate company vehicles in a safe, courteous, and efficient manner.
• Operate a forklift to assist with the safe and efficient loading and unloading of trailers as needed.
• Properly secure cargo to prevent damage or loss during transport.
• Maintain accurate logs, records, and transportation documentation, including Bills of Lading (BOLs) when required.
• Monitor and report any issues related to the Food Safety Management System (FSMS) to the Director of Quality Assurance or executive leadership team while maintaining strict adherence to FSMS requirements.
• Communicate effectively with facility personnel and leadership regarding delivery schedules, delays, or operational concerns.
• Complete all assigned tasks and responsibilities as directed, regardless of job level, to support overall business operations.

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record required.
• Class A CDL preferred but not required.
• Ability to provide a current Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).
• Forklift certification preferred or ability to become certified.
• Familiarity with transportation-related documents such as Bills of Lading (BOLs) preferred.
• Previous experience operating commercial vehicles, box trucks, or delivery vehicles is preferred.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong understanding of transportation safety practices and company policies.
• Ability to safely operate company vehicles and forklifts in a safe and efficient manner.
• Ability to perform thorough pre- and post-trip inspections and identify potential maintenance concerns.
• Effective time management skills with the ability to meet schedules and deadlines.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and perform a variety of tasks as needed.
• Commitment to workplace safety, product integrity, and continuous improvement.

Job Description

Department: Quality Assurance

Employment Type: Full-Time Regular

FLSA Classification: Hourly, Non-Exempt 

Reports To: FSQA Supervisor 

Travel Requirements: 10% 

Work Location: Green Bay, WI (Ontario or Vital Place Plant)

Hours:  Monday through Thursday 5:00 AM - 3:30 PM

Role Summary:

An FSQA Inspector is responsible for upholding the highest standards of food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance in all pet food products. This role plays a vital part in protecting the health and well-being of pets by carefully monitoring, evaluating, and verifying every stage of the manufacturing process — from raw material selection to final product packaging. By ensuring strict adherence to regulatory requirements, internal quality systems, and customer specifications, the FSQA Inspector helps maintain product integrity and fosters consumer trust in our brand.

Role Responsibilities and Essential Functions:

Quality Control

• Conduct routine inspections and audits of raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.
• Perform laboratory tests and analyses to identify contaminants or deviations from established specifications.
• Evaluate and test products in accordance with the Quality Plan to verify conformance to requirements.
• Place nonconforming products on physical hold and communicate findings to relevant personnel.
• Collaborate with production teams to identify root causes and implement corrective actions for quality issues.
• Collect raw material samples from production for laboratory testing.
• Conduct visual and swab-based pre-operational verifications of sanitation activities and initiate corrective or preventive actions when needed.
• Monitor employee hygiene practices and communicate any noncompliance to appropriate staff.
• Perform audits of glass and brittle plastic controls.
• Verify scale weights and oxygen analyzer accuracy according to established schedules.
• Serve as the primary quality and food safety contact on the production floor.
• Report any FSQA system issues to leadership and ensure compliance with all FSQA standards.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with FDA, USDA, AAFCO, and other applicable regulatory and industry standards.
• Stay current with evolving regulations and proactively implement required process or documentation updates.

Process Monitoring

• Oversee production processes from ingredient receipt through packaging to identify potential food safety or quality risks.
• Partner with production teams to implement corrective and preventive measures and drive continuous process improvement.

Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain accurate and timely records of inspections, tests, and other quality assurance activities.
• Prepare detailed reports on product quality, safety, and compliance for management review.
• Accurately enter and manage data within applicable computer systems.

Training and Development

• Train production and support staff on quality assurance protocols, sanitation practices, and food safety procedures.
• Develop, update, and communicate standard operating procedures (SOPs) and training materials.

Continuous Improvement

• Participate in cross-functional initiatives to identify and implement opportunities for product and process improvement.
• Recommend and support actions to enhance quality, food safety, and operational efficiency.

Additional Responsibilities

• Replenish sanitation and personal hygiene supplies throughout production areas as needed.
• Collaborate with production personnel and the FSQA Supervisor to make decisions in the best interest of the organization.
• Act as a proactive advocate for food safety, product quality, and continuous improvement across all departments.
• All other duties as assigned.

Job Description

Department: Operations

Employment Type: Full-Time Regular

FLSA Classification: Hourly, Non-Exempt 

Reports To: Operations Supervisor 

Travel Requirements: None 

Work Location: Green Bay, WI (Ontario or Vital Place Plant)

Role Summary:

An Operations Associate plays a critical role in supporting day-to-day operational functions in various departments on the plant floor. These positions may be responsible for managing incoming materials through cold processing, freeze drying, packaging, and warehousing amongst other various tasks. The role is essential for ensuring efficient processes are maintained within scope of job duties while upholding the highest standard of safety and quality. 

Role Responsibilities and Essential Functions:

Operations Associates may be assigned to various departments within the production and warehousing plants. General duties may include: 

Cold Processing:

Prepare pet food products by measuring, weighing, and placing them on trays, then loading trays onto carts and labeling accordingly. Complete production paperwork and follow all safety and food quality standards while supporting various production tasks and assisting other departments as needed.

Freeze Dry:

Responsible for handling and moving product carts, operating freeze dryers, inspecting product quality, and maintaining accurate production records. You will follow all safety and food quality standards while supporting various production tasks and assisting other departments as needed. 

Packaging:

Responsible for packaging pet food into bags, boxes, and other containers according to weight and quantity specifications. Duties include labeling packages, stacking boxes on pallets, scanning and wrapping pallets, and using a pallet jack for movement. You will follow all safety and food quality standards while supporting various production tasks and assisting other departments as needed.

Warehouse:

Operates forklifts and other equipment to receive, inspect, and record incoming deliveries while maintaining accurate shipment logs. Ensures equipment is properly maintained, handles shipping-related issues, and keeps the warehouse clean, safe, and organized. You will follow all safety and food quality standards while supporting various production tasks and assisting other departments as needed.

Operations Associates will be assigned a specific role within the plant and may be required to fill job duties of other areas as business needs require. 

Job Description

Role Summary:  

The R&D Application Specialist role is responsible for supporting laboratory operations, product development, analytical testing, and quality assurance activities for freeze-dried and frozen pet food products. This position manages laboratory equipment and testing processes, supports NIR calibration programs, assists with product innovation initiatives, and ensures compliance with regulatory and food safety standards. The role collaborates cross-functionally with R&D, Production, and FSQA teams to support product development and continuous improvement initiatives. 

Role Responsibilities and Essential Functions: 

Laboratory & Analytical Testing 

• Manage laboratory equipment, materials, and testing supplies to ensure proper functionality and compliance.  
• Perform moisture analyzer calibrations and maintain calibration documentation.  
• Conduct regulatory and analytical testing on raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods.  
• Coordinate third-party laboratory testing, including sample collection, preparation, shipping, and results tracking.  
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, test data, certificates of analysis, and regulatory documentation.  
• Assist with production finished good quality testing as backup support for FSQA operations.  

NIR Calibration & Training 

• Develop, maintain, and verify Near Infrared (NIR) calibration programs.  
• Train FSQA investigators, technicians, and other personnel on proper NIR operation and testing procedures.  
• Troubleshoot NIR equipment and support continuous calibration improvements.  

Product Development & Innovation 

• Develop and prototype new freeze-dried and frozen pet food products, flavors, and ingredient applications.  
• Execute bench-top and pilot-scale R&D samples aligned with project objectives.  
• Evaluate new ingredients and processing capabilities for scalability into commercial manufacturing.  
• Document formulations, processing observations, nutritional analyses, and experimental outcomes.  

Cross-Functional Coordination 

• Coordinate with R&D, Operations, FSQA, Procurement, and Packaging teams to ensure proper handling and control of prototypes and samples.  
• Support product commercialization activities through sample preparation and process validation.  
• Identify and recommend process improvements to improve efficiency, consistency, quality, and cost performance.  
• Compliance & Documentation 
• Maintain compliance with food safety, quality, regulatory, and company standards.  
• Ensure all testing records, formulations, and experimental documentation are complete, accurate, and audit ready.  
• Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), sanitation procedures, and workplace safety requirements. 

Education and Experience:  

• High school diploma or equivalent.  
• Minimum 1–3 years of experience in a laboratory, food manufacturing, R&D, or quality assurance environment. 

Skills and Abilities:  

A successful R&D Application Specialist will have: 

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.  
• Ability to accurately document laboratory procedures, formulations, and testing results.  
• Knowledge of laboratory practices, food safety principles, and regulatory compliance standards.  
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving capabilities.  
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.  
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional environment.  
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and data management systems.  
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot laboratory equipment preferred.  
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of formulations, processes, and proprietary information. 

Physical Requirements:  

This position requires the ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday and regularly perform repetitive hand movements while handling laboratory materials, ingredients, and testing equipment. The employee must be able to frequently bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and lift or carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds on an occasional basis. Work may be performed in laboratory, manufacturing, refrigerated, frozen, wet, or temperature-controlled environments. The role also requires the ability to safely handle raw materials, chemicals, cleaning agents, and laboratory equipment while following all safety procedures and wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE). Visual ability to read instruments, labels, computer screens, and technical documentation is required.
 

Role Disclosure and Acknowledgement:  

The Role Description does not contain all lists of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of this role but is intended to be a general summary of the essential functions and qualifications to perform the tasks of the role. Duties may change at any time, with or without notice. By signing the below, you agree to have read the description in full and understand the requirements, essential functions, and duties of this role.