Apply Today as a Program Associate for Findlay Market!

Program Associate

Job Description

This full-time, onsite position is essential to helping the Corporation for Findlay Market share its story through a robust tour program, recruit volunteers to assist with events, book local musicians to play on the weekends, and much more.

Details

The Program Associate is responsible for all aspects of programming for the Communication Team, from ideation through execution. The Program Associate is the secondary hand for Findlay Market events, providing on-site support and assisting with volunteers, performer check-in, and day-of event logistics. The Event Coordinator manages this role and works closely with the Event and Community Engagement Manager. The Program Associate is also expected to support teams across the organization in executing programming when appropriate.

CFFM is looking for someone who is organized, engaging, and self-motivated. We want someone who can take an idea and run with it. CFFM seeks someone who understands and believes in CFFM’s mission and will create programming that helps us achieve our organizational goals. Every program must have a strategy aligned with our values and managed with Findlay Market and our community in mind.

The Program Associate’s success will be measured in part by the following goals:

Retain existing and attract new shopper base to shop at Findlay Market
Strengthen CFFM’s community impact through at least 15 local partnerships, nonprofit support, volunteer opportunities, and employee/Board development.

Principal Duties & Responsibilities

Findlay Market Programming & Events

Plan, execute, and evaluate weekday, weekend, and seasonal programming that supports CFFM initiatives and showcases market offerings.
Manage the Music at the Market program, including outreach and scheduling of musicians, onsite support, and post-performance evaluations.
Manage and grow the Friends of Findlay Market membership program, ensuring timely delivery of perks, accurate data tracking, effective member communications, and close collaboration with the Marketing Team on recruitment and retention strategies.
Manage relationships with external partners and organizations to deliver collaborative programming onsite and offsite
Coordinate sampling activations (i.e., Findlay Eats) and special merchant-focused program opportunities
Partner with the Communication Team to promote programs through web, print, and digital channels
Work with the Finance Team on budgets and payment needs related to programming
Track program data, report outcomes, and identify opportunities for growth
Be on-site during Market events to assist with event setup, manage volunteers—including check-in, training, and support—and coordinate with music performers to ensure they are prepared to perform
Support communications and coordination with event programming partners as needed
Support private events as needed

Tour Program

Develop and implement a strategy to grow and strengthen the Findlay Market Tour Program
Serve as the primary tour guide and train staff and volunteers to lead tours
Stay informed on current activities within the Findlay Market District and the broader Cincinnati region
Maintain strong knowledge of all CFFM programs and Findlay Market merchant offerings
Expand the program by developing customized tours for diverse groups, including schools, community organizations, and corporate groups
Create and manage an annual tasting tour schedule with monthly themes, working closely with merchants to increase participation and provide unique offerings
Manage all tour requests, bookings, and communications
Track and analyze program data, including volunteer tour guide hours, number of tours, attendance, and merchant participation

Volunteer Management

Oversee the management of the Findlay Market Volunteer Program, including onboarding, training, and recognition
Develop, execute, and continuously improve volunteer recruitment and retention strategies to grow the program and increase engagement
Manage the volunteer sign-up platform and ensure accurate tracking of hours and participation
Coordinate volunteers for all special events, including communication and on-site support
Plan and facilitate regular volunteer meetings and trainings to build community and strengthen skills
Establish and manage volunteer committees and/or focus areas, including but not limited to tours, special events, community outreach, education, and beautification
Create content for the monthly volunteer newsletter to highlight opportunities, recognize contributions, and foster connection
Plan and execute an annual volunteer appreciation event
Collaborate across the organization to identify and fill volunteer needs
Lead volunteer outreach, training, and recruitment for Findlay Market’s annual Christmas Tree Sales
Support volunteer recruitment for the Findlay Market Opening Day Parade and manage day-of logistics, including volunteer check-in and gift bag distribution
Track and analyze program data, including volunteer hours, recruitment/retention rates, and participation by activity area

Community Engagement

Serve as a representative of CFFM at onsite and offsite community engagement opportunities
Host regular Community Nights, partnering with local organizations to activate Jane’s and Race Street Station with free activities and programming for families and the Over-the-Rhine community
Manage bi-annual shopper surveys, including data collection, analysis, and reporting
Support communication with community partners and assist with logistics for engagement initiatives

Values, Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

1-3 years’ relevant work experience
Previous experience working with diverse audiences
Experience with volunteer management a plus
Must be comfortable with public speaking and be able to showcase past experiences giving tours or presentations
Demonstrated ability to work in a proactively diverse and inclusive organization
Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds, perform physical labor, and remain on their feet for extended periods during events and programming.
Proficiency with volunteer management software
Excellent, proven interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
Effective problem-solving and mediation skills
Demonstrated ability to share skills and knowledge with others
Proficiency with office computer equipment and software
Demonstrated ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment
Continual on-the-job learning is required
Ability to work weekends, evenings and some non-traditional hours
Displays a strong sense of professionalism, ownership, and accountability
Comfort with adapting to changing situations
Ability to prioritize workload and multiple projects

The Voice of Black Cincinnati is a media company designed to educate, recognize, and create opportunities for African Americans. Want to find local news, events, job postings, scholarships, and a database of local Black-owned businesses? Visit our homepage, explore other articles, subscribe to our newsletter, like our Facebook page, join our Facebook group, and text VOBC to 513-966-3328.