Category Marketing Planning Specialist

About usRural King is America s Farm and Home Store, providing essentials to the communities we serve. With a wide array of necessities ranging from food and feed to farm and home products, Rural King serves over 140 locations across 14 states and is constantly expanding. Our annual sales exceed $2.5 Billion, and our heart beats in Mattoon, IL, home to our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store.One thing our customers appreciate is our unique shopping experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee. It's just one way we show our appreciation for their support.At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We offer growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment where dedicated individuals come together to serve rural communities passionately. Join us, and you'll find not just a job but a chance to grow professionally, contribute meaningfully, and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.How we reward you 401(k) plan that provides a 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% of the next 2%Healthcare plans to support your needsVirtual doctor visitsAccess to Centers of Excellence with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic s Complex Care Program15% Associate DiscountDave Ramsey s SmartDollar ProgramAssociate Assistance ProgramRK Cares Associate Hardship Program24/7 Chaplaincy ServicesCompany paid YMCA Family MembershipWhat You ll do As a Category Marketing Planning Specialist you will be a crucial function in shaping and impeccably executing strategies and initiatives that support key promotions, product categories, and brands in alignment with Rural King's overarching strategic roadmap. This role encompasses the leadership of cross-functional teams, the oversight of third-party agencies, and the collaboration with internal and external partners to attain overarching business objectives. In addition, the position carries the responsibility of managing vendor CO-OP funds that complement the core RK marketing budget.Develop and execute marketing plans and assets by leveraging a variety of marketing channels (digital, social, email, store POP, print, TV/radio, public relations, experiential events, etc.).Transform data-driven insights into actionable strategies.Present and align strategies with senior leadership.Ensure tactical alignment with channel owners.Provide precise creative guidance to both internal and external creative collaborators.Ensure operational coordination with field teams.Oversee the entire spectrum of execution details, from development to deployment.Compile and effectively communicate results.Interpret and optimize programs based on performance metrics.Lead strategy development, internal socialization, and cross-functional execution of marketing programs for key brands, categories, and servicesDetermine an appropriate integrated marketing support plan inclusive of CRM, digital, social, in-store environment, internal communication, and budget.Ensure flawless execution of tactical elements of marketing programs, including setting up promotional elements, working collaboratively with various Marketing teams, ensuring communication to store team, communication with vendors, keeping leaders informed, etc.Lead national events for key categories and brands, and other national merchandising events developed.Partner heavily with Merchants and Leadership to ensure programs align with and support business priorities; report out on results and learnings.Leverage internal resources and external partners for programs to provide the maximum return to the organization. External partners may include advertising agencies, PR agencies, Print Suppliers, media agencies, packaging vendors, consultantsProactively work with key vendor partners and merchants to fully leverage vendor assets and funds.Lead associates in a way that exemplifies the leadership principles taught in Rural King s Thrive Leadership Program. Use discretion and independent judgment in daily decisions while maintaining a high level of confidentiality and professionalism. Actively participate in learning initiatives offered such as training programs, workshops, and webinars. Leverage these opportunities to acquire new knowledge, refine existing skills, and stay current on the latest developments. Provide friendly, proactive, and professional internal and external support to others, assisting with inquiries, concerns, and issues promptly and effectively. Provide friendly, proactive, and professional internal and external support to others, assisting with inquiries, concerns, and issues promptly and effectively. Demonstrate behaviors that exemplify Rural King s Values: People First, Integrity, Attitude, Initiative, Teamwork, Accountability, and Continuous Improvement. Perform other duties as assigned. Supervisory Responsibilities NoneEssential Qualities for SuccessAt least 2 years of marketing planning experience and bachelor s degree in marketing, communications or similar field or equivalent combination of experience and education.Excellent verbal and written interpersonal and communication skills.Excellent customer service skills.Strong understanding of retail business practices. Excellent negotiation and conflict resolution skills.Demonstrated ability to adapt in a fast-paced environment.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.Demonstrated ability to coach and mentor team members.Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.Demonstrated behaviors must reflect integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.Physical Requirements Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.Capability to lift 15 pounds periodically. Able to navigate and access all facilities.Skill to effectively communicate verbally with others, both in-person and via electronic devices.Close vision for computer-related tasks.Physical Requirements Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.Capability to lift 15 pounds periodically. Able to navigate and access all facilities.Skill to effectively communicate verbally with others, both in-person and via electronic devices.Close vision for computer-related tasks.Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.The pay range for this position is $48,250 - $56,000 annualized and is bonus eligible. Exact compensation is determined by factors such as relevant geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs. To learn more about our benefits, review here :aaid:sc:VA6C2:14539c15-191a-4b77-9c13-f6ccfce10094.