Job Announcement: Market Development Specialist

Title: Market Development Specialist Location: Spokane, WA. Not a telework position, although some remote work is allowed.
Job Function: Business Development, Marketing
Class: Full-time, Salary, Overtime-exempt
Compensation: Starting at $75,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Benefits: https://careers.wa.gov/benefits.html

The Washington Grain Commission (WGC) is seeking a Market Development Specialist who is passionate about promoting the world’s best grain and who will proudly represent Washington grain farmers.

The Market Development Specialist will play a crucial role in expanding market opportunities for Washington grain, particularly in international markets. The Market Development Specialist is expected to develop creative and diverse strategies to increase demand for Washington grain. They will support the WGC in effectively communicating the advantages of Washington grain and provide critical data that supports customer buying decisions. The Market Development Specialist will work with industry partners and customers to understand the varying needs and changing demands of the industry.

The ideal candidate will have exceptional communication skills, a customer-oriented demeanor, strong analytical skills, and a proven track record of building strategic partnerships. Familiarity with the grain industry and previous market development experience is strongly preferred.

Key Responsibilities

1. Market Development: Plan and execute market development activities to increase demand for Washington grain and showcase its quality and reliability. Support CEO in creating market development strategy.
2. Content Creation: Produce informative and educational content relevant to grain buyers around the world that highlights the advantages and reliability of Washington grain. This includes short and long-form writing, promotional materials, print and digital media. Support the Director of Communication in distributing content through WGC channels following WGC brand standards.
3. Data Reporting and Analysis: Monitor and report on relevant data, including supply and demand, crop conditions, harvest progress, and exports. Provide regular updates in a variety of formats.
4. Crop Quality Testing: Coordinate sample collection for annual crop quality testing. Gather timely information on harvest progress and contribute to national reporting efforts.
5. Trade Team Support: Collaborate with WGC team members in the planning and execution of trade team visits.
6. Industry Engagement: Communicate regularly with industry partners and customers, providing information and services as needed.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of professional experience in ag economics, agricultural commodity market development or promotion, agribusiness industry, business management, or closely related field. An advanced degree may substitute for professional experience.
• Demonstrated excellent written and verbal communication.
• Demonstrated strong public speaking and presentation skills.
• Proven advanced skills in Excel and professional experience with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain productive working relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and in collaboration with colleagues and partners.
• Proven skills and experience in graphic design, social media, and video production, preferred.

Special Requirements

• Frequent work outside of normal business hours.
• Domestic and international travel, and ability to maintain required documents.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Foreign language abilities, preferred.

About the WGC
The WGC is a state agency under the Washington State Department of Agriculture working to enhance the long-term profitability and competitiveness of Washington small grains and small grain producers through research, marketing, and education. Funded by the farmers we represent, the WGC advances the wheat and barley industries through public education, market development, and small grains research activities that a single farm would not be able to do on its own.

WGC employees value open communication, accountability, and embrace a growth mindset. WGC employees uphold ethical use of state resources and strive to maximize the return on grower dollars.

The WGC does not discriminate on the basis race, religion, color, age, sex, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, gender expression and identity, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.

Application Process
Application process: Submit cover letter, resume, and any additional documents demonstrating qualifications to Casey Chumrau at jobs@wagrains.org.
Application deadline: Application review will begin on May 1, 2024, and will close May 24, 2024.