Overview This job contributes to REI’s success by managing and developing community partnerships and executing local activations, such as community events, stewardship projects and in-store events. Through building and maintaining local partnerships, the Specialist brings local marketing and brand engagement campaigns to life within their specific market. This role works collaboratively alongside Retail and Experiences to develop the local Community Engagement Plan, which aligns directly with REI’s national business goals and brand priorities. The Specialist executes local events, stewardship and community-based activations that result in increased brand awareness, increased customer lifetime value, member acquisition, member retention, driving store/digital traffic, all while connecting Co-op wide initiatives at a regional and market level. This role also coordinates local experience marketing, event execution, partnerships procurement and investment. Some additional responsibilities include (as needed): budget management, marketing and New Store opening support, partnership development and management, program assessment and reporting, support for local public affairs and content efforts. Models and acts in accordance with REI’s guiding values and mission. Ideal candidate will have an established network of local activity club and event contacts, as well as experience planning and executing events and partnerships in the RUN category. Assists manager and program manager in development of local marketing and engagement plan in alignment with national plan Integrate partnerships into local programming calendars Works collaboratively with all Field & Headquarters cross divisional partners to develop and deliver campaign and program details in a timely and effective manner Develops, cultivates, and builds community partnerships with local run and activity clubs Identify opportunities to sponsor or collaborate on in-community events and be a main point of contact for potential partner orgs Drives REI’s inclusion work in local communities Produces virtual & in-person programs Tracks and manages local events budget with direction from Local Marketing Regional Manager Collects and reports data on partnerships and programs to track KPI’s, measurements and feedback Builds positive and beneficial relationships with Retail and Experiences to ensure buy-in and support of Local Marketing Programs Manages local grant program Visits market stores on a regular basis to support relationship building and program execution Coordinates execution of national vendor program plans as directed by AHQ Responsibilities and Qualifications 2+ years of event production experience 2+ years of experience in regional marketing programs, community engagement programs (events, community group partnerships and activities) BA in relevant field and/or equivalent experience Experience in building productive and mutually beneficial relationships between for-profit and non-profit organizations 1+ years of experience in managing budgets Passion for preserving and recreating in the outdoors Exceptional identification with REI’s customer service philosophy; ability to effectively resolve difficult customer issues Passionately participates and collaborates with others on one's own team and across REI for the achievement of business goals. Flexible in one's viewpoints and positions in order to support the direction taken by others at REI. Uses business knowledge, innovative thinking, and sound judgment in the solution of problems or the pursuit of business opportunities. Consolidates information from various sources including feedback from others to reach sound conclusions. Considers the ultimate impact of actions and actions on internal and external customers. Works smart by setting effective work goals, establishing priorities, and planning well in order to produce quality work. Executes effectively by using resources efficiently, meeting deadlines, and keeping others informed of work plans and progress toward goals. Understands the importance of clearly and accurately disseminating pertinent information in a timely manner Builds rapport with all kinds of people inside and outside the organization. Acts upon opportunities and involves and influences others in the accomplishment of worthwhile organizational goals. Challenges the status quo, champions change and influences others to change. Mid-level PC skills: Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint, Publisher. Closing At REI, we believe the outdoors is for all. We are committed to becoming a fully inclusive, anti-racist, multicultural organization. We know that there's strength in our diversity – that each employee brings unique skills, experiences, and perspectives. Every day you are driving change, fostering a culture of respect, and knowing you're backed by benefits that support your whole life. To work towards this commitment and fulfill our brand promise of inspiring and enabling a life outside for everyone, we seek employees who demonstrate different ways of working, create a sense of belonging, and actively listen and learn. Pay Transparency We are committed to practices that promote pay equity and transparency. As required by applicable Pay Transparency laws, REI provides a range of compensation for roles that may be hired in locations under these requirements. Factors that may be used to determine your actual salary may include a wide array of factors, including: your specific skills and experience, geographic location or other relevant factors. REI offers all regular employees a generous employee discount, access to health benefits, a retirement savings plan and accrued time off. Click here for a detailed overview of benefits plans by employee profile. Pay Range $24.51 - $36.76 per hour