Marketing & Public Relations Specialist
Position Title: Marketing & Public Relations Specialist
Salary Range: $50,000 - $75,000 Non-Exempt Position
Application Deadline: February 14, 2025
About Mississippi State Port Authority: Situated on the Gulf of Mexico in Gulfport, Mississippi, the Port of Gulfport is a deep-water, international seaport and a major contributor to the local and national economy. As the second-largest importer of green fruit in the U.S. and a pivotal gateway for Central American trade, it connects 75% of the U.S. market within just 24 hours. The Port is more than a maritime hub; it's a key driver of economic development and innovation in the region and State, and a significant player in global maritime trade and the Blue Economy.
About the Position: The Marketing the Public Relations Specialist at the Port of Gulfport plays a vital role in managing the Port’s digital presence, creating compelling content, and assisting with public relations and community engagement efforts. The ideal candidate is creative and detail-oriented and has strong skills in content creation, social media management, graphic design, and event coordination, with the ability to work collaboratively across departments to enhance the Port’s image and outreach.
The Essential Functions:
- Digital Content and Social Media Management: Develop and implement social media strategies to raise public awareness and understanding of the Port. Create, design, and produce specialized content, including photos and videos, for social media platforms and other communication needs. Maintain social media calendars and regularly post to and monitor platforms for engagement and inappropriate content. Regularly update and maintain the Port’s website. Maintain and update the online media room and image galleries.
- Marketing and Collateral Creation: Design and produce marketing materials and advertising content, including brochures, flyers, presentations, digital and print media, and promotional materials. Assist in preparing presentations for leadership and external stakeholders. Support the creation of proposal designs for prospective customers to promote the Port’s business development initiatives. Play a key role in coordinating the sourcing, purchasing, and inventory management of promotional items for marketing, educational, and community events.
- Public and Community Relations Support: Support the planning, logistics, and production of collateral materials for advisory committee meetings, port events, and other public outreach activities. Maintain comprehensive contact lists of key stakeholders (city, county, state, federal agencies, tenants, and business partners) for communication purposes. Photograph and document Port activities, maintaining an organized stock photo library and ensuring marketing materials such as brochures, flyers, and promotional content remain current.
- Content Creation and Editorial Support: Assist in the development and production of the Port’s quarterly newsletter. Provide copywriting, editing, and proofreading support for internal and external communications materials. Draft press releases and other media materials. Create media kits, press materials, and presentations.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities:
- Proficiency in social media management, graphic design, and digital content creation.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with attention to detail in editing and proofreading.
- Experience in event planning and community relations is a plus.
- Must be able to work on a Mac Platform, have experience in Microsoft Office, and be proficient in Adobe Creative Suite.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Minimum of two (2) years of experience in marketing, public relations, or similar role.
- Bachelor’s degree in marketing, Communications, Public Relations, or related field preferred. Relevant experience/professional certifications may substitute for educational requirements.
- Ability to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC) within 30 days of employment. (See: https://www.tsa.gov/twic)
- Must pass pre-employment drug screening and background check
We Offer:
- A supportive, fun, and collaborative work environment on the coast of Mississippi.
- Comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and MS State PERS retirement.
- Opportunities for professional development, including tuition reimbursement after one year of employment.
How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience online or by emailing employment@shipmspa.com.