The Manager, Independent Channel Strategic Initiatives executes high-impact commercial and transformation priorities across the U.S. Independent Channel. Partners with Channel Leadership, Sales, and cross-functional teams to turn strategy into action, driving growth, improving customer experience, and enhancing field effectiveness. This role acts as a key integrator, supporting planning, tracking, and program delivery across the Independent Channel. The ideal candidate brings strong project management skills, business acumen, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, matrixed environment. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Strategic Program Execution Support execution of strategic initiatives that align to Professional Solutions and Commercial priorities Turn strategy into actionable project plans with defined timelines, owners, and success metrics Track 5-8 core program initiatives, proactively identifying risks and supporting mitigation plans Partner with Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Customer Experience to support effective program rollout and field adoption Maintain stakeholder alignment, ensuring consistency in execution and communication Commercial Enablement & Operations Develop and track channel business plans, identifying performance trends across customer segments and regions Build and maintain reports, dashboards, and executive summaries to monitor progress and impact Assist in preparation for business reviews, ensuring clear articulation of key insights, risks, and actions Coordinate cross-functional timelines, dependencies, and deliverables Partner with Finance and Planning to support forecasting and performance analysis for key initiatives Cross-Functional Alignment & Change Management Align with Strategy, Sales Operations, and Customer Experience on Independent Channel initiatives with broader organizational priorities Support transformation efforts related to go-to-market strategy, sales enablement, and operational effectiveness Contribute to change management planning, including communication and adoption strategies for field teams Drive structure and clarity to cross-functional workstreams, ensuring momentum and accountability Execution Governance & Ways of Working Coordinate project teams and workstreams, to ensure priorities and follow-through Foster collaboration, accountability, continuous improvement across stakeholders and functions Partner with and share best practices to peers across channels (KA, Med-Tech, Sport Channel, etc.) to drive consistency BASIC QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Finance, or related field 5–7 years’ in strategy, consulting, business operations or commercial roles Strong project management, analytical, and communication skills Ability to manage multiple priorities, influence without authority, and work in a fast-paced, matrixed environment. Experience translating data into actionable insights Ability to operate autonomously and drive accountability cross-functionally PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Experience in optical or consumer industries Background in strategic consulting or sales-driven environments Experience supporting cross-functional initiatives or transformation programs Pay Range: 94,795.80 - 150,727.80 This posting is for an existing vacancy within our business.