Marketing, Events and Membership Manager

UFI is seeking a dynamic and skilled Marketing, Events, and Membership Manager to lead brand development, strengthen community engagement, and support fundraising outcomes through strategic marketing and communications. This role will enhance UFI’s visibility and influence in the Boston market, increase program participation, inspire donor investment, and elevate the organization’s impact. This is a full time, exempt position and will report to the Executive Director. This is a hybrid (3 days minimum on-site + as needed for events) or fully on-site 5 days per week.

About Urban Farming Institute (UFI)

Urban Farming Institute’s (UFI) mission is to develop and promote urban farming to engage individuals in growing food and building a healthy community. UFI is a pioneering organization dedicated to the development and promotion of urban farming practices, working diligently to engage individuals and foster a vibrant, healthy community.

We recognize the immense potential of urban farming to address various societal challenges, including climate change and the need for climate resilient communities, food insecurity, and the decline of community connections. With a mission deeply rooted in both environmental sustainability and social equity, we strive to empower individuals and neighborhoods by creating opportunities for meaningful engagement, education, and action. Our motto is “we don’t just grow food, we grow people.”

Headquartered in Mattapan, UFI is committed to advancing urban farming as a way to support food justice, community resilience, and economic opportunity. Through hands-on education, community engagement, and food production, UFI empowers individuals to connect with healthy food systems and creates sustainable and connected urban communities.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Strengthened Brand Development

• • Conduct a comprehensive brand assessment to refine UFI's brand identity, messaging, and visual elements.
  • Develop and implement brand guidelines to ensure consistency across all communication platforms.
  • Revamp UFI’s marketing and messaging strategies to enhance awareness of programs, attract donors, and increase attendance.
  • Support fundraising efforts by clearly communicating UFI’s mission, impact, and outcomes.

Digital Marketing Campaigns

• Develop and execute targeted digital marketing campaigns across social media, email newsletters, and UFI’s website.
• Create compelling, audience-focused content, including videos, graphics, infographics, and success stories.
• Monitor performance metrics (engagement, reach, conversion) and optimize campaigns based on data-driven insights.

Community Engagement

• Lead the promotion and marketing of UFI’s ongoing community engagement activities, including Farm Stand Fridays, workshops, and volunteer opportunities.
• Explore innovative ways to engage with local communities to expand participation and cultivate relationships, including the support of the new UFI Membership Program.
• In partnership with the Development Team lead, support the advancement of corporate sponsorship opportunities connected to UFI events.

Media Relations and Outreach

• • Cultivate relationships with local media outlets, journalists, and community influencers.
  • Develop and distribute press releases, media kits, and pitch materials to secure media coverage.
  • Position UFI as a thought leader in urban farming, community food access, and sustainability.

Market Research and Analysis

• • Conduct regular analysis of UFI’s target audiences to understand their preferences, behaviors, and needs.
  • Use market insights to align UFI’s programming and communications for maximum impact.
  • Monitor and report on campaign results, audience feedback, and trends to inform future strategies.

Event Planning

• Lead the promotion, marketing and execution of UFI’s ongoing community engagement activities, including Farm Stand Fridays, workshops, and volunteer opportunities.
• Manage the licensing and permitting process for all events with the City of Boston.
  • Partner with Development on concept and execution of a signature fundraising event, and on the management of smaller “friendraising” events to attract new investors and deepen current relationships and partnerships.

Qualifications:

• • Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
  • Minimum of 4+ years of experience in marketing, branding, events, or community outreach roles, preferably in a nonprofit or mission-driven organization.
  • Passion for UFI’s mission to promote urban farming, food justice, and sustainability.
  • Experience securing and managing corporate sponsorships.
  • Proven experience conducting brand assessments and developing messaging frameworks.
  • Demonstrated ability to create and manage multi-platform digital marketing campaigns (social media, email, web).
  • Strong content creation skills, including video, graphics, storytelling, and other visual/creative mediums.
  • Experience coordinating events and engaging diverse communities.
  • Familiarity with media relations, press releases, and outreach strategies.
  • Proficiency in tools such as Microsoft Office, Canva, Mailchimp, Squarespace, and social media platforms.
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret campaign data and audience insights.
  • Exceptional organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
  • Creative problem-solving skills and a proactive, collaborative mindset.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, persuasive messaging.
  • Collaborative and engaging interpersonal skills that advance effective teamwork.
  • Must be able to work some evenings and weekends.

Compensation and Benefits:

• • Salary range: $70,000 - $75,000 depending on experience.
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including health and dental insurance, generous paid time off, life and disability and professional development opportunities.

How to Apply:

Please submit a resume, cover letter, and 3 – 5 samples of relevant work from your portfolio (e.g., marketing materials, content samples) to Lori Smith Britton at lsmithbritton@urbanfarminginstitute.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

UFI is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and experiences to apply.