Summary

The AgConnect Communications Coordinator is responsible for implementing and advancing the policies and programs of the Chester County Commissioners and AgConnect (Chester County Economic Development Council) to promote and preserve agriculture as an economic engine in Chester County. This role involves creating public relations and marketing materials such as press releases, blog posts, and newsletters related to the agriculture industry. This role also involves tracking and reporting analytics on marketing and communications campaigns and coordinating public events for AgConnect.

Essential Duties

• Create and manage the public relations strategy for AgConnect, including determining appropriate content, marketing, communications, and outreach components, in addition to media relations.
• Write a variety of content to support communications and marketing efforts, including newsletters, website copy, brochures, proclamations, citations, and press releases.
• Monitor analytics and create reports detailing the successes and failures of communications campaigns and strategies.
• Serve as the outreach “voice” of the AgConnect.
• Manage the AgConnect’s “brand’ through appropriate public engagement.
• Assist in the production, distribution, and marketing of the Chester County Local Farm Products Guide, including creating content strategy for the guide, connecting with local farmers to assemble the guide, and developing and tracking the distribution strategy.
• Develop and maintain online resources for AgConnect.
• Administer annual agricultural awards, including the Farmer of the Year award.
• Stay up to date on agriculture industry trends and make recommendations for adjustments to communications strategies and practices.
• Respond to media inquiries and maintain relationships with members of the press.
• Coordinate volunteers, support staff, vendors, and more to support public events.
• Perform outreach to press outlets, magazines, influencers, and build strategic partnerships to grow the AgConnect image.
• Perform all other duties, tasks, and special projects, as assigned.

Qualifications/Preferred Skills, Knowledge & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field from an accredited college or university or equivalent work experience
• Minimum four years’ experience in a communications or marketing role
• Superior time management and organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• An analytical mind and ability to think critically.
• Exceptional writing and interpersonal communication skills
• Accurate and detail oriented with an ability to multi-task.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent public relations skills
• Familiar with MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint and capable of creating visually compelling presentations.
• Knowledge of email marketing software such as Vertical Response or a similar program
• Proven knowledge of communications and marketing ethics and best practices
• Proficient in public speaking
• Customer service experience
• A valid driver’s license is required.

• Five years or more in a communications or marketing role
• Knowledge of the agricultural industry.
• Demonstrable experience and accountability in creating outreach strategies and content for government, non-profit or for-profit entity.
• Presentation experience to advance organization and partner initiatives.
• Knowledge of Chester County geography, County policy and plans, local governments, the local, regional, state, national and international agricultural economy
• Understanding of the interrelationships between numerous variables that impact or have the potential to impact the viability and vitality of agriculture in Chester County

Additional Information

Relevant background checks, clearances, physicals, drug tests, and any other assessments or evaluations will be conducted after an offer of employment is given per County policy.
Computer Skills:
To perform this job successfully, an individual should have:

• Advanced computer skills
• Advanced Microsoft Office skills
• Knowledge of various forms of social media including Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.

• Close vision (clear vision at 20 inches or less)
• Ability to adjust focus (ability to adjust the eye to bring an object into sharp focus)

• The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate.
• May require touring farms in various conditions/terrain.

• Ability to work extended hours as necessary.
• This position requires professionalism, teamwork and positive communication.
• Availability 24/7/365 to assist with Emergency Operation Center (EOC) as needed.