JOB DESCRIPTION
Michigan Retailers Association (MRA) is the largest state retail association in the nation. Through its affiliated entities, MRA provides various services to its members and other businesses, including, but not limited to, legislative representation, credit card processing, and workers’ compensation.
POSITION
Vice President, Communications
LOCATION
Lansing, Michigan
RESPONSIBILITIES
This position reports to the President and Chief Executive Officer.
- Build and improve the MRA brand with members and non-members through its publications, websites, media strategy, outreach, marketing assets, and social media. Basic knowledge of digital media is helpful; social media and print publication skills are required.
- Act as media spokesperson or refer media members to others in the organization as needed. Quick thinking and poise on radio, TV and with digital reporters is a plus.
- Expand awareness of our shop-local Buy Nearby initiative and oversee the campaign, which includes budget, sponsorships, website, social media, materials, interns, workshops and media strategy. Maintain relationships with the many chambers and downtown organizations who take advantage of the program.
- Plan and edit publications, including the Michigan Retailer magazine, the digital Food eNews, the Annual Report, and Legislative Report. The ability to brainstorm story ideas on retail trends and events, oversee freelancers, work with our graphic designer and meet print publication deadlines is a must.
- Oversee and produce content for Retailers.com and ensure that Retailersinsurance.com, BuyNearbyMI.com, and Retailersprocessingnetwork.com stay up to date.
- Work collaboratively with the governmental affairs team to promote the legislative objectives of MRA and its members. Experience in state government or lobbying is preferred.
- Oversee the MRA Scholarship Program, an annual competition for college scholarships.
- Maintain MRA’s relationship with the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, which partners with MRA to produce the monthly Retail Index survey of retailers.
- Provide marketing and communications reports to the MRA and affiliated entities Boards of Directors at regularly scheduled meetings.
- Skills: Ability to connect with people and organizations; to talk to media on and off camera; produce marketing and advocacy/informational materials and web content. Some journalism experience is a plus.
QUALIFICATIONS
A college degree is required. Experience in one or more of the following or related fields is a must: journalism, communications, marketing, public relations, state government.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
As negotiated.
APPROXIMATE START DATE
To be determined, but no later than Fall 2024
APPLICATION DEADLINE
July 15, 2024
CONTACT
Resumes and inquiries should be directed to Amy Jolley, Director of Human Resources and Executive Assistant by email to ajolley@retailers.com or regular mail at 603 S. Washington Ave., Lansing, MI 48933. Questions? 517.372.5656.
