Farmers Market Coordinator

Job Summary: Responsible for the overall management and operation of the award-winning Holly Springs Farmers Market. Includes vendor recruitment and relations, market promotion, securing sponsorships, event planning, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. Works closely with the Parks & Recreation department to create a vibrant and engaging market that supports local farmers, food producers, and the community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Vendor Management: Recruit, select, and manage vendors to ensure a diverse and high-quality market. Maintain positive relationships with vendors and address any issues that arise.
• Market Operations & Staffing: Hire, train, and supervise part-time market staff to assist with day of market operations.  Lead the setup, operation, and breakdown of the market. Ensure that the market runs smoothly and safely for vendors and customers.
• Promotion, Marketing, & Sponsorship: Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote the market. Utilize social media, local media, and community sponsorships to increase market visibility, attendance and supplemental funding.
• Event Planning: Plan and coordinate special events and activities to enhance the market experience. This may include live music, cooking demonstrations, and wellness workshops.
• Compliance: Ensure that the market complies with all local, state, and federal regulations. This includes obtaining necessary permits and licenses and ensuring that vendors adhere to health and safety standards.
• Community Engagement: Foster a sense of community at the market by engaging with customers, vendors, and local organizations. Gather feedback and make improvements based on community input.
• Administrative Duties: Maintain accurate records of market operations, including vendor agreements, financial transactions, grant administration, and attendance data. Prepare reports for various town departments as needed.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, public administration, parks & recreation, community development, marketing, or related field – or equivalent experience.
• Experience: Previous experience in event planning, market management, or a related field. Experience working with vendors and the public is highly desirable.
• Skills: Strong organizational and communication skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Proficiency in social media and marketing tools.

Physical Requirements: Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds. Must be able to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Schedule and Compensation:

• The position requires working weekends, as the market operates on Saturdays with additional weekday hours for administrative tasks.
• Work is primarily outdoors at the market site in variable weather conditions with some office work required. 
• $21 per hour with up to 30 hours per week. Comprehensive benefits including a prorated group health insurance, retirement, and 401k.
  Reports To: Administrative Manager