Marketing Operations Manager

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary project manager for all marketing and communications initiatives, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
• Oversee project workflows, from inception to fruition, utilizing project management software (e.g., Monday.com) to track progress, manage resources, and ensure accountability.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external vendors to define project scope, establish timelines, and allocate resources effectively.
• Oversee and directly manage the coordination and communication for video and photo shoots with participants, vendors, editors, and all parties involved.
• Oversee and directly manage the marketing and inquiries inboxes to ensure timely outgoing responses.
• Develop and implement standardized processes for marketing activities, including campaign development, content creation, and lead generation.
• Identify opportunities to streamline workflows, automate tasks, and improve overall marketing efficiency.
• Manage marketing technologies and tools, including CRM systems, email marketing platforms, marketing automation software, and analytics dashboards.
• Track and analyze key marketing metrics, such as website traffic, lead generation, conversion rates, and campaign performance.
• Generate regular reports to provide insights into marketing effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
• Assist in the development and management of the marketing budget, track expenditures, and analyze ROI.
• Support logistics, branding, and promotional materials for trade shows and events, including being an active participant during events.
• Work closely with the administration and operations team to ensure successful participation and representation at trade shows.
• Support event sponsorship initiatives, including identifying, evaluating, and negotiating sponsorship packages.
• Work with the Graphic Design Manager to ensure consistent branding across all materials.
• Develop and implement plans for hosting delegations visiting Illinois.
• Conduct quarterly market research to identify trends and best practices in economic development marketing.
• Analyze competitor strategies and identify opportunities for differentiation.
• Continuously evaluate marketing initiatives and recommend adjustments as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in marketing, business administration or related field.
• At least three years of experience directly related to marketing operations or marketing analytics, including one year of supervisory experience.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in marketing technologies, including CRM systems, email marketing platforms, and marketing automation software.
• Working knowledge of AP Style, HTML/CSS, MailChimp (or comparable ESP), Monday.com (or comparable project management system), and WordPress (or comparable CMS).
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of traditional and emerging marketing technologies.
• Experience with data analysis and reporting tools (e.g., Google Analytics), capturing and reporting on metrics, and analyzing results.
• Strong organizational and customer service skills.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally, visually, and in writing.

Nice to Have

• One or more years of experience in marketing within economic development, public/private or non-profit organizations.
• Familiarity with marketing automation best practices.
• Experience with budget management and resource allocation.
• Project management certification (e.g., PMP).
• Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation.