Overview

About us

Rural 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 160 locations across 17 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 needs

Virtual doctor visits

Access to Centers of Excellence with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic’s Complex Care Program

15% Associate Discount

Dave Ramsey’s SmartDollar Program

Associate Assistance Program

RK Cares Associate Hardship Program

24/7 Chaplaincy Services

Company paid YMCA Family Membership

Responsibilities

What You’ll do

The Vice President of Marketing and Sourcing is responsible for leading the strategic vision, development, and execution of integrated marketing initiatives across all channels to achieve company objectives and drive revenue growth. This executive leader plays a critical role in advancing overall sales performance and brand positioning at Rural King. This position partners closely with Category Management, Store Operations, and Inventory to ensure alignment between merchandising strategy, promotional execution, and in-store performance. By leveraging compelling storytelling, data-driven insights, and strong business acumen, the Vice President will drive customer connection, strengthen brand loyalty, and enhance engagement with customers, partners, and prospective talent.

 

• Oversee development and execution of strategic initiatives across brand management, creative, digital marketing, print, e-mail, search engines, social media, company sponsorships, customer relationship management (CRM), and loyalty programs.
• Lead the marketing team through strategic brand positioning, brand propositions, and loyalty program initiatives to align with overall business objectives.
• Leverage consumer insights and apply data-led strategic thought leadership.
• Drive website traffic through search engine optimization (SEO) and search engine marketing (SMO).
• Continually evaluate and make timely adjustments to marketing strategies to meet changing markets and competitive conditions.
• Create, execute, and update planograms across all categories supporting all stores in line with the overall space merchandising strategy of the organization.
• Have full control of the feature selection, assortment planning, negotiation, and product lifecycle of the chosen items.
• Work closely with Category Managers on informing them of the selection chosen as well as the overall space merchandising strategy.
• Plan for 25% of the features to be new products to create excitement and foot traffic.
• Travel, as business dictates, to Rural King locations and vendors
• Own the full life cycle of the additional skus.
• Develop initiatives around new store marketing to increase brand alliances.
• Lead data analysis across all platforms and channels to measure overall performance.
• Collaborate cross departmentally to improve, develop, and advocate promotional opportunities and direction.
• Use discretion and independent judgment in daily decisions while maintaining a high level of confidentiality and professionalism.
• May be required to cross train and perform other duties.

Qualifications

Essential Qualities for Success

• At least 10 years of retail marketing/sourcing leadership experience or equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Experience with CRM Platforms.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn Oracle ERP Systems.
• Excellent verbal and written interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong understanding of retail business practices.
• Excellent negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to build rapport, listen actively, and communicate effectively with a diverse range of individuals.
• 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
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds periodically.
• Ability 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 activities.

 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Yes

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