Newark Downtown District

Summary: The Marketing & Communications Manager will work closely with fellow team members on all key marketing and public relations initiatives. The position reports directly to the CEO. The Marketing & Communications Manager is responsible for the development and implementation of marketing strategies and communications, public relations, and promotional and social media related activities, including content generation, email marketing, and web updates. The Marketing & Communications Manager is also responsible for the planning and onsite execution of (mostly outdoor) public events which properly align with SID goals identified in the Strategic Plan and by the CEO. The ideal candidate will also execute promotional tactics in support of a variety of events and programs, demonstrating subject matter expertise. This position will continue drive the organization’s brand forward, operate/oversee the organization’s social media channels, and work with the Marketing Team and other organization departments to develop events, themes, and concepts/activities to increase engagement in the downtown district.

Responsibilities (include but are not limited to)

• Lead comprehensive marketing and communications plan that will enhance the organization’s image and position within the community and the public, and facilitate internal and external communications;
• Create and coordinate the design, production, and distribution of digital and print marketing materials, such as event promotions, newsletters, posters/banners, website, annual report, etc. and ensure consistent articulation and communication of the organization’s desired image and position, both internal and external;
• Responsible for editorial direction, design, production, and distribution of organization publications and digital presence;
• Coordinate the appearance of organization materials and ensure style guide is implemented consistently;

·      Develop event strategies, theme, and concepts/activities to increase engagement in the downtown district;

·      Prepare event plans, budgets, schedules, etc.; direct and coordinate the onsite activities of staff, volunteers, and contractors, and manage all aspects to ensure successful execution of events;

·      Plan and execute events involving high-level audiences, including board members, political officials, public figures, celebrities; create talking points, scripts, briefing papers, press releases, and marketing content for those events;

·      Negotiate agreements with contractors to ensure the lowest cost and highest quality of services;

·      Conduct event risk assessments and work with the SID’s insurance company to reduce/eliminate potential risks, secure event security, submit insurance applications, and create activity waivers;

• Research, write, edit and distribute content to support strategic initiatives, events, and other programs;
• Create print and digital collateral and other materials that reflect the organization’s brand using graphic design software;
• Create and disseminate internal and external communications using an email marketing tool;
• Develop and execute social media strategy and messaging;
• Coordinate website updates and perform routine maintenance/audits;
• Support media relations activities including research, media coverage, monitoring and reporting;
• Facilitate community relationships and coordinate cross-promotional opportunities with SIDs and community partners;
• Coordinate with the City and other organizations, attend and/or present at meetings, complete professional development training, as requested;
• Supervise a marketing associate and/or utilize qualified local vendors to carry out various components of the marketing and communications plan.

Qualifications:

To be successful in this position, you must be a team leader and a strategic and creative communicator

• 3-5 years’ experience in marketing, communications, journalism, or a related-field
• A bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, journalism, or a related-degree preferred
• Strong computer skills with experience working with WordPress, graphic design software, database management, and social media platforms
• Excellent research skills with the ability to stay informed on best practices, industry trends and downtown (i.e. “what to do?”) happenings
• Superior writing and editing skills
• Friendly, outgoing, with a positive attitude and a great sense of humor
• Self-starter, organized, and detail-oriented
• Proven ability to meet deadlines and successfully manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Excited about urban revitalization; enjoys working in a fast-paced environment and wearing a variety of hats; team player

Newark Downtown District