Marketing Specialist for Certified SC and Related Programs

The South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA) is seeking a Marketing Specialist to serve as the program coordinator for Certified South Carolina and related programs. In this role, you will:

• Support existing members and recruit new members for SCDA branding programs through outreach, site visits and events.
• Develop strategies to advance SCDA branding efforts, including marketing campaigns, websites, branded merchandise and more.
• Inspect and verify compliance of members with all rules and requirements of Certified SC programs, including Certified SC Grown, Certified SC Product, and Fresh on the Menu.
• Maintain member data.
• Serve as the point of contact for the SC Specialty Food Association to include attending board meetings and coordinating an annual membership meeting.
• Work collaboratively with programs including Market Development, Communications/Events, and Commodities to develop new market opportunities for SC agriculture and exposure for Certified SC brand programs and information.
• In conjunction with Event Director, manage SCDA's involvement in the Southeastern Wildlife Expo (SEWE) to include recruitment of Certified SC vendors, SC Specialty Food vendors, and set-up and overall design of the program.

BENEFITS:• Generous State benefits to include retirement, health, vision, dental and life insurance.• Premium for BCBS State Standard Plan for employee only coverage is less than $100/month!

• Premium for BCBS State Standard Plan for full family coverage is only $307/month!

• 13 paid holidays; generous annual and sick leave accruals.

• Up to 6 weeks paid parental leave.

• Employee Assistance Program• Free counseling sessions for employees and household members

• Free Life Management Services (legal, financial, and more)

• Bachelor's degree in marketing or agricultural studies and three (3) years relevant experience in marketing or promotional programs or an Associate's degree in marketing or agricultural studies and five (5) years relevant experience in marketing and promotional programs.

• Valid state driver's license and ability to drive a motorized vehicle.

• A bachelor's degree in marketing, agricultural studies, business administration, or a related field and three (3) years of experience in marketing agricultural products.

• Working knowledge of agriculture and/or South Carolina's agribusiness industry.

• Prior board management experience.

• Two years’ budget management experience.

• Experience planning meetings to include Board meetings.

• Prior public speaking/communication experience.

• Membership recruitment/retention for industry related associations.

• Strong project management, communication, organizational and problem-solving skills.

• Demonstrated ability to identify opportunities, define objectives, implement plans and assess successful execution or course correct as necessary.

• Must be people oriented with strong communication skills.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of people.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excell, Outlook, and PowerPoint.

• Requires working effectively in a transparent, team-oriented environment.

• Must be able to walk and stand for extended periods of time.

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., assemble and dismantle exhibits.• Overnight travel, periodic weekend work, and attendance at meetings held after regular business hours required.

• This position is based at SCDA Headquarters, which is located on the campus of the Statehouse grounds.

• This is NOT a remote-based position.