Reporting to the Executive Director, the Farmers Market Manager is responsible for the smooth operation and promotion of our weekly, outdoor, local Farmers Markets. This role works closely with volunteers, market vendors, customers, and other community partners to ensure a successful market execution. The successful candidate is highly self-motivated and possesses a combination of strong administration skills, people leadership abilities, and event management skills.

The Farmers Market Managers key areas of responsibilities include but are not limited to the areas of marketing and communications, vendor management and relationship building, community leadership and engagement, team leadership and HR functions, strategic planning and program development/management.

In this dynamic and versatile role, the Farmers Market Manager will be accountable for creating a fun and rewarding work environment, while engaging with the community and contributing to the growth and direction of the Society.  The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, holds a passion for local food, and enjoys being outside.

Key Responsibilities:

On Market Day (On-site):

• Manages Summer Markets – May – October attends weekly Wednesday markets (1pm – 8pm)
• Facilitates the set up of the Market including: determining tent layout, assembling tents, tables, banners, and other Market day materials
• Manages vendors:  directing vendors to their locations, collect fees, market currencies, and handle vendor queries
• Assists Operations Coordinator to oversee staff and volunteers, community group participants, and entertainers
• Provides Market information to shoppers and vendors; and positively handles concerns and queries
• Positively represents Grow Local Society – Tricities to the community.

Beyond Market Day (Remote Work):

• Vendor Management: manage vendor relationships, create and maintain vendor schedule, create monthly newsletter, answer queries, recruit new vendors
• Marketing and communications: create and implement plan to promote farmers market  
• Creates monthly newsletter, distribute press releases, create content and manage social media presence
• Creates general, event and promotional materials
• Maintains website – blog posts, social media promotions, vendor profiles, events and workshops
• Program Management: implements and manages programs operating through the market
• Responds to general inquiries, through phone, email, and social media
• Represents the CFMS at community events in the Tri-Cities

 Qualifications and Competencies:

• Minimum of 2-3 years of related experience. 
• Post-graduate education and/or certification in marketing, communications, event management or another relevant field is considered an asset.
• Has strong leadership skills with a demonstrated ability to cultivate a strong and cohesive culture across an organization.
• Ability to set clear priorities, delegate, and contribute to organizational strategic direction.
• Marketing/branding, project and financial management experience and abilities.
• Excellent relationship building skills with a capability to communicate and work effectively with a variety of internal and external community partners.
• Strong analytic, organization, and problem-solving skills, which support and enable sound decision making and conflict resolution.
• Exceptional communication skills including written, verbal and listening.
• Holds an interest in community economic development and is familiar with the not-for-profit sector.
• Is self directed, reliable, responsible, and works collaboratively as part of a team.
• Proficient user of Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Graphic design and knowledge of design software an asset.
• Familiarity with the Tri-Cities area an asset.

 Terms of Contract:

• 20 – 24 hours per week
• $25 – $28/hr DOE
• Must have access to computer, phone and printer
• Required to lift up to 10kg of equipment
• Must hold a valid BC Drivers license with access to a reliable vehicle

Interested candidates are asked to submit their cover letters and resumes to info@makebakegrow.com by March 31st, 2024. Please indicate which position you are applying for in the subject of the email.