Marketing Specialist

Title: Marketing Specialist

Location: Hartford, CT - Hybrid

*W2 Contract*

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, events, or a related field.
• 3 years of related experience in event marketing, creative production, or communications.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interact confidently at all levels.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and a creative problem solver with a passion for the full project lifecycle.
• Experience working with external vendors, suppliers, and cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and graphic design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite or equivalent).
• Print production experience a plus; knowledge of logo merchandise decoration a plus.
• Experience with Workfront or a similar project/traffic management system a plus.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage branded merchandise microsite and recognition programs, working collaboratively with suppliers and internal partners on item curation, one-off requests, and annual programs.
• Proactively review and evaluate branded merchandise store selections, providing recommendations for item updates and replacements based on performance and relevance.
• Support regular review cycles for ongoing merchandise and recognition programs, including apparel, new hire kits, diversity initiatives, and other branded programs managed through external partners.
• Assist with management of Branded Merchandise Holiday Program including item selection, decoration direction, timing and communications
• Drive timely communications to internal stakeholders and buyers to maintain visibility into merchandise program updates and changes.
• Develop and plan a volunteer employee “brand ambassador” program
• Assist with tradeshows where additional staff is needed and/or smaller events
• Facilitate field management sponsorship ad requests
• Manage branded merchandise website content including homepage updates, new item additions, and promotional refresh as needed.
• Manage seasonal and recurring promotional programs within the online store, including coordination with vendors on timing and fulfillment.
• Pre-event preparation including but not limited to one-pager know before you go, nametags, reception signage, packing checklists
• Organize, inventory and re-stock brand and promotional closets (Executive, Tradeshow and Misc. closets)
• Assist in keeping event calendar and documentation up to date
• Including events outside primary budget scope that require team support
• Ensure post-event debrief feedback is received and recorded
• Leads print production including but not limited to bidding, production, print vendor collaboration, proofing, quality control and deadline management
• Create basic to intermediate graphic design assets in support of event marketing needs, including digital graphics (email headers, save-the-dates, digital badges, cVent assets), print collateral (posters, notecards, briefing book covers, gift card designs), promotional item artwork, sponsorship ad templates, and event signage