Marketing & EventsCoordinator, Molbaks - $DOE

Molbak’s is a world-class independent garden company with a strong regional following and an international reputation. Located in Woodinville, the company operates a 10-acre retail garden and home center, a 40-acre plant product farm, and a small wholesale and customer services business.

Summary:
Molbak’s is looking for an extremely organized, capable, energetic, and personable Marketing & Events Coordinator to oversee the planning, scheduling and execution of our events, workshops and community outreach efforts. The coordinator also plays a key role in developing content and managing marketing messages across a variety of channels (in-store, print, direct mail, p.r., online and more). In addition to supporting the ongoing marketing and events activities, the coordinator will participate in the development and execution of strategic new customer programs as well.

Primary Responsibilities:
Customer focus and retail mindset are central to the success of all Molbak’s marketing efforts. Primary responsibilities of the Marketing & Events Coordinator include: .
• Develop, schedule and execute events (seminars, workshops, chats, demos, parties, etc.) that are meaningful to our customers and reflect the Molbak’s brand.
• Work closely with management team, buyers and customer service managers to determine key topics and optimal timing for various presentations.
• Identify exciting new speakers, authors, and experts in horticulture, interior design, garden design, conservation, relevant crafts / hobbies, and more.
• Cultivate mutually beneficial relationships with others in the garden and home industry – build partnerships and joint ventures to educate and inspire customers.
• Communicate the upcoming event schedule to the media and to customers well in advance of event dates. Periodically test new methods for getting the word out.
• Act as primary point of contact for all speakers and presenters – responsible for making sure that they are confirmed and have all of the needed information. Also responsible for making sure that any required payments are made on time.
• Manage all logistics leading up to the event and on the day of the actual events: - create monthly events calendars for in-store distribution - order all necessary supplies and / or arrange for inventory transfers - coordinate with staff on the set-up and break-down of events - work with speaker / staff to dress the stage appropriately - create handouts and make copies for attendees - create pre-registration sheet (if necessary) and track registration numbers
• Develop strong relationships and be an active participant in the local community
• Respond to all donation and sponsorship requests
• Coordinate marketing communications content – gather needed inputs up front and guide through the approval process
• Help to identify press-worthy opportunities and write draft press releases

Key Skills and Competencies:
• Tremendous organizational skills and penchant for multi-tasking
• Able to develop an event from the “big idea” down to every specific detail
• Flexible, creative and able to think “outside the box”
• Able to think on your feet to resolve problems quickly and graciously
• Very strong written communication skills for newsletters, web content, marketing collateral, press releases, and various promotional materials
• Comfortable speaking and presenting in front of an audience
• Excellent project management, time management, and organizational skills
• Strong interpersonal skills, positive energy, able to supervise and manage others
• Understands brand strategy and its relationship to the overall customer experience

Minimum Requirements:
• 2+ years of relevant event planning or fund-raising experience.
• Retail marketing experience and horticultural knowledge are desirable.
• Exceptional writing, verbal and presentation skills
• Proficient in MS Excel, Word, Publisher and Outlook
• BA or BS in related field.

Environment:
Molbak’s Marketing offices are located at our retail location in Woodinville, WA, which includes a standard office environment as well as an indoor/outdoor retail environment. Some exposure to variations in weather and temperature can be expected. The ability to work sitting, standing and walking for prolonged periods is required. The ability to lift 50+ lbs is required.

To Apply:
Please fax resume and cover letter to:
Molbak’s, 425-398-5190, Attn - Julie Kouhia Or email to jkouhia@molbaks.com