Director of Marketing

Summary/Objective:

The Director of Marketing develops, oversees and coordinates the execution of all marketing and brand strategies in alignment with the vision and strategic plan of the Northern Illinois Food Bank. The Director engages key external audiences, with a primary focus on paid advertising channels, brand building, collateral material development, advocacy and internal communications to elevate awareness for programs and services in the 13-county service area.

The ideal candidate possesses excellent written communication skills, the ability to juggle multiple projects at once, proven track record of managing successful teams and has demonstrated success meeting deadlines.

Essential Functions:

• Leads the Marketing Communication team through coaching, goal setting and strategy development in the areas of advertising, brand, advocacy, design and internal communications. 
• Manages the paid marketing strategy to the neighbors we serve, in addition to other audiences crucial to the Food Bank’s continued success, including donors and volunteers.
• Own and ensure consistent utilization of established brand guidelines, including visual identity, messaging, mission and values. 
• Develop and execute strategy for internal communications alongside HR to ensure consistent messaging for employee engagement and retention 
• Provides leadership to the marketing communications department, executive team and all staff in shaping a positive image for the food bank. 
• Provide copy writing and creative support (working with designer) for print materials, newsletters, brochures, annual reports, etc. Develops and oversees protocols for materials approval for team members. 
• Manage communications calendar proactively to ensure key messages are used consistently throughout organization and ensure deadlines are met for material and message development. 
• Support and coach Advocacy Specialist to ensure the Food Bank has an approved annual agenda and regular engagement with elected officials. 
• Collaborate with Digital Media Specialist on social media strategy and ongoing calendar 
• Collaborates with the Media Relations Director to provide analysis and metrics against KPIs/goals and reaching targeted audiences. 
• Manage appropriate contractual and/or marketing vendors, including design agency, printing vendors, and ad reps, ensuring major projects are bid appropriately, deadlines are met and invoices are accurate.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, public relations, advertising, or similar field. 
• 3-5 years of experience in marketing, advertising or communications. 
• Minimum of one year leading a team. 
• Strong writer with working knowledge of AP style. 
• Excellent attention to detail and proofreading skills. 
• Experience with media buying or advertising 
• Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously, set priorities and meet deadlines. 
• Adaptability to changing priorities and demands. 
• Experience in a fast-paced environment. 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Knowledge of or interest in, the food banking industry and helping solve hunger 
• Experience working in a non-profit setting. 
• Bilingual in Spanish