Director of Communications and Marketing

Director of Communications and Marketing - is responsible for the planning, development and implementation of FarmFirst Dairy Cooperative's and its division's strategic communications and marketing plan to both external and internal customers. The Director is responsible for the development and production of official cooperative publications and support materials to effectively implement the strategic plan for communications, marketing, and public relations. This role also oversees the member services division and field staff. The position reports to the General Manager and is part of the management team.

Responsibilities:

•         Creating, implementing and measuring the success of a comprehensive and strategic communications, marketing, and public relations program that enhances the cooperative's image and position within the dairy industry, members, staff, key stakeholders, and the public with respect to the quality of cooperative programs and services.

•         Creating, writing and producing all cooperative communications, marketing, and public relations materials and activities which include publications (newsletter, press releases, brochures, annual report, membership materials etc.), social media (online communications- e-newsletter, webinars, Facebook, Instagram etc.)

•         Maintaining the FarmFirst website, and the WI Dairy Plant Field Rep Association website

•         Regular contact with the media to generate media interest in cooperative activities and responding to media requests.

•         Developing and managing the communications and member services budgets and utilizing and managing outside vendors and agencies when appropriate

•         Keeping cooperative and division trademarks current and creating new trademarks when necessary

•         Managing contracts, budget and purchases of promotional items, but delegating the coordination of trade show participation and content for displays to MS Field Representative who has those responsibilities.

•         Overseeing but delegating the coordination of fall District meetings to MS Field Representative who has those responsibilities.

•         Seeking opportunities for designated MS Field Representative to participate in dairy industry relation events.

•        Assist in developing new revenue sources for the cooperative through supplier membership, exhibits and sponsorships

•         Establishing and maintaining strong collaborative working relationships with team members, other divisions, and vendors to ensure effective ongoing communication.

•         Supervising member services field staff and member services division

•         Working on policy advocacy efforts in conjunction with National Milk Producers Federation and Midwest Dairy Coalition.

Qualifications:

·        Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Marketing, Communications or related field – OR – equivalent experience

·        Knowledge of Microsoft Office

·        Experience utilizing social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn)

·        Experience utilizing e-mail platforms such as Mailchimp

·        Outstanding oral and written communication skills

·        Experience with website design and maintenance. Wordpress knowledge is a plus

·        Knowledge of agriculture and the dairy industry

·        Proven ability to meet deadlines and see projects through to completion

·        Experience with Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator) and basic graphic design is a plus.