Transition Management; TM & Communications Lead

Transition Management (TM) & Communications Lead

Job ,

Location:

Bend, Oregon

We are seeking a dynamic Transformation Leader to support an enterprise-wide, customer-facing software deployment for our client. This is a high-visibility initiative that directly impacts how retail teams operate and customers experience. As the Transition Management & Communications Lead, you will be the driving force behind the adoption of this new technology. By translating complex technical rollouts into clear, value‑driven narratives, you will help our frontline teams understand the "why" behind the change, rebuild alignment, and ensure long‑term operational success.

If you excel at bridging the gap between technical delivery and human adoption in a fast‑paced environment, this role offers the opportunity to make a massive, measurable impact.

• Rebrand and Reset:
  Lead the Communications POD to shift program messaging to heavily focus on the "why"—highlighting the big picture and long‑term benefits to the stores to rebuild trust and reset the system’s image.
• Transparent Messaging:
  Establish a clear communication channel to gather real, unvarnished feedback from the stores. Transparently communicate what the project team is actively fixing (customer‑impacting issues) versus future enhancements, setting realistic expectations.
• Phased Readiness Communications:
  Re‑define the week‑by‑week "T‑Minus" communication cadence (e.g., T‑Minus 8 weeks to Post‑Go‑Live) to ensure Regional Managers, Area Managers, and Store Managers are consistently informed of rollout dates, infrastructure checklists, and training expectations.

• Cross‑POD Alignment:
  Embed change management practices across all active PODs (e.g., Cutover & Support, Experience, Training) to ensure that technical fixes and UI optimizations are accurately reflected in end‑user communications and training updates.
• Change Impact Assessments:
  Partner with Business System Analysts (BSAs) to execute Change Impact Assessments during the development of new functional bundles. Translate process maps and technical changes into clear "What’s Changing" guides and FAQs for end‑users.
• Drive 30/60/90‑Day Outcomes:
  Lead the Communications POD through the designated phases:
  Observe, Learn, and Understand (30 days), Strategy and Planning (60 days), and Implement and Monitor (90 days).

• Break Down Silos:
  Shift the project away from siloed development by ensuring High Impact/High Influence (HI/HI) stakeholders and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) are actively involved in working sessions and functional design approvals.
• Blameless Culture:
  Foster a "blameless" culture by replacing finger‑pointing with shared accountability. Facilitate smaller, monthly functional group Retrospectives to discuss pain points, capture wins, and make necessary adjustments "on the fly".

• Support Formal Readiness Paths:
  Ensure all messaging and change activities align with the newly standardized deployment tracks:
  The Happy Path (5‑week lead time), The Fast Path (2‑week accelerated lead time), and the Quick Flip.
• Enforce Exit Criteria:
  Partner with the Cutover & Support POD to communicate and enforce the strict, non‑negotiable "Go‑Live Readiness Checklist" (or "Houston checklist"). Ensure stakeholders understand that deployments will not proceed unless strict training compliance (e.g., >80%) and system stability metrics are met.

• Proven experience in transition management and project management, particularly in technology implementations for the retail industry.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, and effectively manage presentations and meetings.
• Strong leadership abilities to engage and motivate cross‑functional teams.
• Knowledge of change management principles and best practices.
• Strong organizational and work prioritization skills and attention to detail.

• Expected duration: 6‑9 months with a 30‑day notice and potential for renewal.
• Work location:
  
  Hybrid/On‑site in Bend, Oregon – some regional travel may be needed.
• Full time.
• Reports to Rollout Manager.