Market Manager

Job Title: Market Manager

Organization: Historic Portland Public Market // James Beard Public Market 

Location: Portland, Oregon

Reports to: Executive Director

Hours/Classification: Full-time, Exempt

About the Historic Portland Public Market

The Historic Portland Public Market (HPPM) is a nonprofit organization committed to reestablishing a year-round public market in downtown Portland that celebrates Oregon’s food heritage, cultivates economic opportunity, and strengthens community connections. Inspired by the legacy of James Beard and rooted in the traditions of public markets around the world, the Market aims to serve as a vibrant regional hub for food access, entrepreneurship, and cultural celebration. Scheduled to open its doors in the heart of downtown Summer 2026, the Market will support a diverse array of vendors—especially those from historically marginalized communities—and create an inclusive and equitable economic platform for small food businesses to thrive.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We recruit, hire, employ, train, promote, and compensate individuals based on job-related qualifications and abilities. We are committed to providing a work environment that respects the dignity and worth of each individual and is free from all forms of employment discrimination, including harassment, because of race, color, sex, gender, age, religion or religious creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We will also provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities or based on a sincerely held religious belief, in accordance with applicable laws.

Position Summary

The Market Manager will serve as a key leader in launching and managing the James Beard Public Market’s physical site and daily operations. The Market Manager will establish and oversee facility management systems, vendor operations/relations, leasing coordination, and site safety. An essential role in community engagement, and the ongoing development of a world-class public market experience, the position requires someone who is passionate about Portland’s future, Oregon’s bounty, understands the importance of public markets in supporting small businesses and local food systems, and thrives in dynamic, community-centered environments.

Key Responsibilities

Operations and Facilities

• Manage day-to-day market operations, including vendor coordination, customer service, cleanliness, and safety.
• Serve as liaison with building management to coordinate tenant services and resolve issues in a timely manner.
• Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures to ensure a safe, clean, and accessible environment for vendors and visitors.
• Oversee all building systems (HVAC, electrical, security, etc.) and vendor infrastructure needs.
• Manage maintenance schedules and coordinate with service contractors (janitorial, waste, pest control, security, etc.).

Vendor Support and Leasing

• Assist in onboarding inaugural vendors, including lease compliance, permitting, and stall buildout.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for vendors regarding operational issues.
• Coordinate vendors move-in/move-out and ensure smooth transitions.
• Support the vendors “lease to launch” process.

Financial Oversight

• Manage operational budget areas including supplies, vendor services, and facilities contracts. This includes maintaining financial records to comply with audit requirements.
• Track operational performance metrics and report regularly to the Executive Director.

Staff Supervision

• Perform the full range of management duties including hiring, training, supervision, and evaluation of operations support staff (e.g., maintenance, janitorial, security).
• Ensure compliance with applicable employment policies and wage/hour laws. Report emergent employee issues to Executive Director in a timely manner.

Programmatic and Community Engagement

• Coordinate with program and events staff to support site logistics for events, activations, and educational programming.
• Engage with community stakeholders, city agencies, and nearby businesses to maintain strong local partnerships.

Candidate Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree preferred; equivalent lived or professional experience in lieu of degree will be considered.
• At least 5 years of experience in facilities management, operations, or retail/marketplace environments, with at least 3 years of supervisory experience.
• Experience working in or with food-based businesses or public markets strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated success working with diverse populations.

Skills & Attributes

• Strong leadership and team management skills who can work collaboratively across the organization.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently,
• Comfortable with hands-on work and the physical demands of a public-facing, high-traffic site.
• Working knowledge of building systems and maintenance best practices.
• Understanding of local government permitting, health and safety regulations.
• Familiarity with employment law and guidelines.
• Customer service mindset with strong interpersonal and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to maintain composure during periods when job responsibilities may require skillful, swift,
• and decisive action.
• Ability to work effectively with a cross section of diverse talent.
• Culturally competent and committed to equity and inclusion.

Compensation & Schedule

• Salary Range: $100,000-$125,000 annually, commensurate with experience.
• Benefits: Medical, dental, paid time off, retirement contribution, and professional development support.
• This position requires weekend and occasional evening hours, as the Market operates seven days a week. On-site presence is essential, especially during high-traffic periods and events.
• During the initial period of employment, some job duties will be performed remotely.

Application Instructions:

Short answers to the following screening questions are required for all applicants.

1. The James Beard Public Market is funded by public and private money, and its opening is highly anticipated by many stakeholders in the community. Please describe briefly the opportunities and challenges you see in balancing the expectations and responsibilities in this position as the first Market Manager.
2. What key attributes make you a successful leader?
3. On a daily basis, the Market Manager will be one of the most visible representatives of the James Beard Public Market. What does a successful public representative role require?

In addition, please submit a one-page resume that includes the following:

• Name
• Contact information
• Relevant employment experience including dates employed
• Education
• Three references. Note: references will not be contacted until the end of the hiring process.

You may also add a cover letter describing your interest in the position and how your experience aligns with the mission of the James Beard Public Market.

The application deadline is Friday, August 29th at 5:00 pm. All applications will be read as they are submitted and evaluated based on your experience and answers to our screening questions.

Following the end of the application period we will contact you as soon as possible to let you know the decision about whether you will be scheduled for an interview. Our goal is to fill the position no later than October 1st.

Please email materials to: info@jamesbeardmarket.com 

In subject line: Market Manager Position Application