Marketing Manager - U of MN Bookstores

The Marketing Manager is responsible for development of long and short-term strategic marketing plans. This includes production and distribution of retail print and digital graphics, oversight of email campaigns and lists, creation of sales promotion assets, manage social media advertising/utilization/analytics, internal and external communications, community, alumni and local business outreach, event planning and budget development/oversight for campus Bookstores retail operations in the Twin Cities, Crookston, Morris and Rochester. In addition, the Marketing Manager acts as assistant to the Director assuming other duties as assigned.

The position reports directly to the Departmental Director.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive marketing plan for the Bookstores which maximizes sales, exposure and brand image within budget requirements.
• Develop a youthful, engaged image for the Bookstores through the proper use of social media, email marketing, general advertising, public relations and sales promotions.
• Effectively coordinate with Bookstore buyers and managers to promote their respective businesses and evaluate effectiveness of sales promotions and events.
• Plan, create and manage Bookstores social media channel content and communications.
• Develop and maintain contacts/programs with a wide range of campus groups including Orientation and Transition Experiences, Alumni Association, Parent Program, Admissions, etc.
• Negotiate and maximize vendor coop advertising and marketing funds. This includes adhering to vendor specifications and invoice guidelines available from vendors.
• Ensure that the Bookstores are effectively supporting the activities of campus groups, both student and staff.
• Create and coordinate major campus events/programs including Gradfest, Gopher Gear-Up, Explore U, University onboarding events, Employee Recognition Program, etc.
• Develop and administer a visual point of purchase merchandising program.
• Work with buyers and store managers to ensure that key merchandising space in the stores is used effectively in support of sales promotion and advertising efforts.
• Develop an internal communications program to keep all store personnel informed of events taking place in the Bookstores and on campus. Ensure all personnel are kept abreast of upcoming advertised events and promotions.
• Plan, create, and publish digital and print assets to support store branding and retail sale initiatives.
• Create and maintain web content for coupon validation, store hours, general information, etc. Create and manage brand style guide to assist team members with web product descriptions and photography to improve our Search Engine Optimization.
• Manage Google Analytics, Google AdWords, and Google My Business channels for all locations to maximize digital reach.
• Work with local media to ensure maximum reach and value for external advertising.
• Other duties as assigned.

Essential Functions of the Position:

• Establish a comprehensive Bookstores marketing plan and budget.
• Develop new and creative approaches to drive the Bookstores brand, image and sales.
• Manage subscriber data and Bookstores email marketing platforms while maintaining University standards and e-marketing regulations.
• Create and oversee digital and print advertising campaigns and budgets.
• Manage all digital channels for customer feedback, communication and effectiveness.
• Manage Bookstores advertising/promos to ensure compliance with University and external vendor branding requirements.
• Develop and maintain contacts with campus groups, local businesses and community.
• Create and administer effective merchandising programs, promotions and events.
• Develop an internal communications program.
• Maintain and manage data integrity and privacy.

Minimum Qualifications:

• BA/BS Degree plus at least six years of experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated responsibility of prior oversight of a small department or cross-disciplinary team of notable size, complexity, or significance that, in part, affects how well the organization to which the incumbent belongs operates.
• Knowledge of marketing and business concepts.
• Knowledge of retail operations and processes.
• Experience with social media usage and utilization.
• Experience with Adobe Creative Suite or similar software.
• Ability to develop and maintain working relationships with a variety of stakeholders both internal and external.
• Ability to develop, plan and execute marketing programs.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbal and written.
• Ability to work independently and react to market/social opportunities.
• Ability to understand, execute and analyze digital/ecommerce data.

Salary: $59,000 - $65,000 annually.