Summary The Cost & Expense Optimization Director will lead financial and operational cost optimization initiatives across the organization, with a particular focus on the Retail Service Merchandising (RSM) segment. This role requires a blend of financial acumen, operational insight, and project leadership to drive sustainable cost reductions, improve profitability, and enhance service delivery. The ideal candidate will be adept at cross-functional collaboration, data-driven decision making, and managing change initiatives that improve long-term efficiency. Essential Duties & Responsibilities + Analyze operational and financial data to identify inefficiencies and cost-saving opportunities across departments and field operations. + Clearly define distribution objectives and develop scalable, field-ready processes to ensure alignment with merchandising and operational goals. + Design, implement, and continuously improve routing strategies for merchandisers to optimize travel efficiency, service quality, and workload balancing. + Identify appropriate servicing frequencies on a per-store basis to maximize productivity, customer satisfaction, and cost effectiveness. + Identify and evaluate appropriate technologies, tools, and platforms to support the Retail Service Merchandising (RSM) team; recommend and support deployment of tools that drive efficiency and data transparency. + Evaluate existing workflows, identify gaps or inefficiencies in work processes, and design new or revised procedures that close those gaps and drive sustainable improvements. + Track key cost and performance metrics; establish benchmarks and monitor goals for expense and service optimization. + Develop and maintain executive-level dashboards, reports, and forecasting models to inform decision-making and strategy. + Lead the scheduling and planning processes for merchandising rollouts and initiatives across varied store formats and geographies. + Support P&L development and review for new client rollouts and services in collaboration with Finance. + Drive operational excellence through business transformation, change management, and process standardization. + Ensure data accuracy, audit compliance, and alignment with internal controls and financial regulations. + Lead or support special projects and ad hoc initiatives, as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities + Advanced analytical and problem-solving capabilities + Strong communication, storytelling, and data visualization skills + High proficiency in Microsoft 365, Excel, Power BI, Tableau, and ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite) + Project management and organizational skills + Ability to lead through influence and manage change + Familiarity with AI tools and automation platforms is a plus + Strategic mindset with strong attention to detail + Retail and merchandising experience strongly preferred Experience and Credentials + Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or related field; MBA preferred + 6+ years in financial analysis, operational management, and/or project management roles + Demonstrated success in cost optimization, business transformation, and change management + Experience in retail, grocery, or service industries is a plus Workplace Expectations + Up to 40% travel including in-store visits + Adherence to safety practices, company policies, and legal compliance + Flexibility to support new responsibilities and high-priority projects