Rural King is America’s Farm and Home Store, providing essentials to the communities we serve. With a wide array of necessities ranging from food and feed to farm and home products, Rural King serves over 130 locations across 13 states and is constantly expanding. Our annual sales exceed $2.5 Billion, and our heart beats in Mattoon, IL, home to our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store.

One thing our customers appreciate is our unique shopping experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee. It's just one way we show our appreciation for their support.

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We offer growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment where dedicated individuals come together to serve rural communities passionately. Join us, and you'll find not just a job but a chance to grow professionally, contribute meaningfully, and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

How we reward you

401(k) plan that provides a 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% of the next 2%

Healthcare plans to support your needs

Virtual doctor visits

Access to Centers of Excellence with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic’s Complex Care Program

15% Associate Discount

Dave Ramsey’s SmartDollar Program

Associate Assistance Program

RK Cares Associate Hardship Program

24/7 Chaplaincy Services

Company paid YMCA Family Membership

What You’ll do

The Director of Store Planning plays a pivotal role in shaping and executing the company's space merchandising strategy. This position collaborates closely with key departments, including Merchandising, Store Operations, Inventory, and Marketing, to deliver impactful results through strategic planograms and compelling presentations.

• Planogram Development & Execution
• Create, execute, and regularly update planograms for all categories, ensuring alignment with the company’s overall space merchandising strategy.
• Develop and recommend category-specific space merchandising solutions based on data analysis and market trends.
• Collaboration & Strategy Alignment
• Partner with Category Managers to align on the overall space merchandising strategy and ensure its effective implementation across stores.
• Build strong internal relationships to present and gain buy-in for space merchandising concepts and recommendations.
• Schematic Management
• Create and update store-specific schematics at the local, area, and regional levels, supporting consistent execution of merchandising plans across all locations.
• Maintain product data integrity for all items as part of the planogram process.
• Travel & Field Support
• Travel, as necessary, to retail locations to assess implementation, gather feedback, and ensure alignment with company standards.
• Operational Excellence
• Use general office equipment and software tools to support space planning processes.
• Perform cross-functional training and assist with other duties as needed to support the merchandising team.
• Be a leader who will inspire and mentor your team to reach new heights for themselves and Rural King.
• Create a supportive and empowering work environment for your team.
• Lead associates in a way that exemplifies the leadership principles taught in Rural King’s Thrive Leadership Program.
• Use discretion and independent judgment in daily decisions while maintaining a high level of confidentiality and professionalism.
• Actively participate in learning initiatives offered such as training programs, workshops, and webinars. Leverage these opportunities to acquire new knowledge, refine existing skills, and stay current on the latest developments.
• Provide friendly, proactive, and professional internal and external support to others, assisting with inquiries, concerns, and issues promptly and effectively.
• Demonstrate behaviors that exemplify Rural King’s Values: People First, Integrity, Attitude, Initiative, Teamwork, Accountability, and Continuous Improvement.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Qualities for Success

• At least 7 years of space planning, merchandising, or a related field, preferably within the retail industry.
• or equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Proven track record of managing planograms and merchandising strategies across multiple categories and store formats.
• Proficiency with JDA/BlueYonder, Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and develop actionable recommendations.
• Excellent collaboration and relationship-building skills with internal stakeholders.
• Proficiency in space planning software and general office applications.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.

 Physical Requirements 

• Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.
• Ability to lift, push, and/or pull a minimum of 30 pounds repetitively and 31-50 pounds intermittently.
• Ability to navigate and access all facilities.
• Skill to effectively communicate verbally with others, both in-person and via electronic devices.
• Close vision for computer-related activities.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Yes

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

The pay range for this position is $117,000 - $150,000 annualized and is bonus eligible. Exact compensation is determined by factors such as relevant geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs. To learn more about our benefits, review here https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:14539c15-191a-4b77-9c13-f6ccfce10094.