Marketing Department – Marketing Specialist
(Full-Time, Non-Exempt)

Overview
Come be a part of the Minnesota State Fair Marketing team! The Marketing Specialist is responsible for supporting and assisting State Fair media and public relations, advertising, marketing, social media and communications efforts.

Essential Functions

• Manage pre-fair and day-of-show Grandstand media relations.
  
• Oversee the creation and project management of various brochures, including the Deals, Drawings & Giveaways Guide, Preview Brochure, Art & Sculpture Brochure, Gardens Brochure, New Foods Brochure and Last Chance Flyer.
  
• Manage the Minnesota State Fair’s advertising in niche publication pieces such as MN Parent and Minnesota Good Age.
  
• Distribute forms, gather orders, enter data and handle distribution for the annual media parking credentials process, including coordinating and managing the media parking lot.
  
• Act as the primary scheduler for food concessionaire media appearances and interviews.
  
• Develop, write, produce and deliver 14 issues of the State Fair Daily News.
  
• Support the planning, tracking and more of the State Fair advertising and promotions campaign, including fielding advertising and ticket trade inquiries.
  
• Support the planning, tracking, content creation and more with the State Fair’s social media campaign.
  
• Assist with the project management, content creation and editing of the media kit.
  
• Assist with media relations by generating story ideas, scheduling interviews, researching and answering questions, as well as monitoring the media phone line and e-mail account.
  
• Assist with monitoring and archiving of broadcast, online and print media coverage.
  
• Update the internal State Fair style guide annually.
  
• Produce scripts for the 50 Year Awards, Outstanding Senior Awards and free stage pre-shows.
  
• Prepare marketing division and entries for IAFE Communications awards and various local awards.
  
• Support all department areas where needed, including crisis communication, proofreading and editing written materials, and more.
  
• Assist with tasks as assigned by either the immediate supervisor or general manager.
  
• During peak activity times, work extra daily hours and periods with no days off.
  

• Two years post high school education and two years related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  
• Computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Office Suite and database software.
  
• Excellent oral, written and interpersonal communication skills.
  
• Strong project management skills, including the ability to prioritize and remain flexible.
  
• Outstanding organizational, editing and proofing skills, as well as attention to detail.
  
• Strong customer service skills and experience.
  
• Ability to stay calm, efficient and effective in high-pressure situations.
  
• Valid driver’s license.
  

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications or a related area of study.
  
• Experience with InDesign and FileMaker.
  
• Knowledge of publication fundamentals and event coordination.
  
• Professional or volunteer event/marketing experience.