MARKETING SPECIALIST - AG EVENTS and AGRITOURISM (Guthrie Agricultural Center, Guthrie, WV)

Job Title:  Marketing Specialist - Ag Events and Agritourism 
Division:  Business Development
Headquarters:  Guthrie Agricultural Center, Charleston, WV
Reports To:  Assistant Director of Programs and Events
Supervisor 
Responsibility:  None 
FLSA Status:  Non-exempt

Nature of Work:
Under general supervision, the Marketing Specialist – Ag Events and Agritourism creates marketing campaigns and plans and serves as liaison for the department to advance the agriculture industry in the state through events such as fairs, festivals, and other industry showcase events

Examples of Work:

• Assist with the development and implementation of new and existing promotional and educational programs to aid West Virginia growers, processors, and agribusiness groups in local, state, regional, national, and international marketing channels.
• Work with Business Development Division staff as well as staff from across the agency to create useful promotional and informational materials, while adhering to brand guidelines.
• Create newsletters and marketing tools for informing the producers network of current events and activities.
• Assist with events that are hosted by the Business Development Division such as event registration or event coordination of the Country Store and Winter Blues Farmers Markets.
• Lead and/or assist with WV Fairs & Festivals to include, but not limited to, coordination and participation of events, distribution of funds, ordering supplies, etc.    
• Be comfortable public speaking to groups or organizations around the state.
• Work collaboratively with other state agencies to support and develop major events and functions that bring agriculture activities to West Virginia.
• Conduct market research for development of viable initiatives.
• Stay current on state and federal code and regulations that apply to the agritourism industry.
• Work with other divisions, agencies, stakeholders, and industry cooperators to identify and promote best practices related to operations.
• Represent the Department and participate in state, regional, and national committees as assigned.
• Plan and execute initiatives to reach producers and the citizens of West Virginia.
• Other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions:

Office environment: sitting, standing, walking, driving, lifting up to 25 pounds.  Occasional overnight travel and work outside of normal business hours. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of advertising and marketing best practices.
• Knowledge of department and state programs and organizations relevant to agriculture.
• Proficient use of computer applications including Microsoft office.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, peers, and the public.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education:

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in marketing, advertising, or a related field.

Experience:

One year of full-time paid employment in marketing, advertising, or a related field.