Community Relations Specialist

SUMMARY

Contributes to the development and implementation of projects and programs that connect the company to the community. Responsible for the coordination of on-site presence at store, community, and corporate events. Ensures the company is represented in accordance with established image standards. Assists in establishing and fostering collaborative relationships with community partners, civic leaders, non-profit organizations, the general public, and local governments.  Assists in introducing the company and its signature offers and philosophies to new markets while reiterating the same to existing markets. Coordinates related merchandising, advertising, and promotional efforts.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

•    Receives and reviews requests for support of community events and organizations. Makes recommendations and negotiates sponsorships for small community events through budgeted dollars, in-kind donations, and other support services.
•    Assists in planning and implementing in-store and community events and promotions, including internal and external promotional and advertising plans. Develops event plans tailored to individual initiatives, working closely with Community Relations Specialists and internal stakeholders including Food Service, Merchandising department heads and specialists, and store department managers. Designs event spaces for maximum branding and visual impact.
•    Facilitates the implementation of Market 32 and Price Chopper event spaces, including delivery of products and supplies, set up and breakdown, and staffing coordination.
•    Staffs Market 32 and Price Chopper event spaces at community events.
•    Negotiates and purchases event related promotional items and premiums, and maintains inventory used for brand activations.
•    Assists in managing charitable giving, community outreach initiatives, and fundraising programs in stores and at the main office.
•    Communicates verbally and in writing with community organization leadership to better understand organizational needs and missions, coordinate on site event presence, and communicate proposal and support decisions.
•    Maintains records and prepares reports related to community events and outreach activities.
•    Oversees distribution of program procedures and processing of invoicing, billing, and payment requisitions.
•    Performs clerical and administrative tasks requiring knowledge of departmental functions and company policies and procedures.
•    Resolves non routine questions and refers matters involving policy or procedural implications to management.
•    Performs other related duties as assigned by management and adheres to all company policies and procedures.
•    Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed for event staffing and support.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Strong communication skills

Strong organizational skills and ability to multi-task

Ability to analyze opportunities and develop programs that effectively address a community need.

Strong communication skills, including the ability to effectively convey information both verbally and in writing.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Excel, Word, Teams

Proficiency in online search engines, ie Chrome, Safari, Explorer

Ability to demonstrate follow-through to achieve desired results and objectives. 

Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed to support community events.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Associates Degree.

• 2–3 years of experience in marketing, advertising, or public relations roles, or a combination of relevant education and experience

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

EQUIPMENT USED

Personal Computer

Microsoft Office Suite

Calculator

Phone

Company van

Copier / Fax / Scanner / Printer