Title: Marketing Associate - W0104

State Role Title: PR & Mktg Spec III

Hiring Range: $30.00 per hour

Pay Band: 4

Agency: Virginia Racing Commission

Location: Virginia Racing Commission

Agency Website: www.vrc.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

The Marketing Associate will primarily focus on enhancing the public image of the Virginia Racing Commission (VRC) through the development and implementation of various marketing campaigns. This role will involve collaborating closely with the VRC’s Executive Secretary and Commissioners to draft a comprehensive promotional plan of action aimed at increasing public awareness of the VRC’s mission to promote, sustain, grow, and regulate horse racing industry in Virginia. The incumbent will also support the VRC’s communication efforts by assisting in the creation of website content, drafting public announcements, and contributing to the development of communication policies.

Core Responsibilities:

· Assist in developing and implementing digital marketing campaigns to enhance
the VRC's public image. This may involve creating content for social media,
email marketing, and other online platforms.
· Collaborate with the VRC's Executive Secretary and Commissioners to draft a
comprehensive promotional plan of action for the VRC. This plan should aim
to improve public awareness of the VRC's mission to promote, sustain, grow,
and control a native horse racing industry with pari-mutuel wagering by
prescribing regulations and conditions that command and promote excellence,
honesty, and integrity.
· Support the development of communication materials for both internal
stakeholders (Commissioners, staff) and the public, ensuring clear and timely
dissemination of information.
· Assist in updating and improving the VRC's website content to ensure
accuracy, functionality, and a positive user experience. This could include
reviewing existing links, suggesting content improvements, and working on the
overall presentation of information.
· Help in drafting public announcements and press releases related to
Commission meetings, revenue reports, venue changes, personnel updates, and
other relevant information, under the guidance of the Executive Secretary.
· Contribute to the development of policies and procedures related to public
communication, taking into account the Virginia Open Meeting Law and
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requirements.
· Support the VRC in improving transparency regarding its activities, consistent with the purpose of the Virginia Freedom of Information Act to promote awareness of governmental activities. · Assist in developing content that explains the VRC's regulatory role in horse racing and pari-mutuel wagering, including Historical Horse Racing (HHR).
· Assist in gathering information and preparing reports on public perception and
the effectiveness of marketing and communication efforts.

Minimum Qualifications

• Strong understanding of digital marketing principles and techniques, including social media marketing, content creation, and online campaign management.
•  Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to draft clear, concise, and engaging content for various audiences.
• Familiarity with website content management systems and basic web design principles is a plus.
• Ability to work collaboratively with the Executive Secretary, Commissioners, and VRC staff.
•  Understanding of the importance of confidentiality in a governmental setting.
• Research and analytical skills to gather information and assess the effectiveness of marketing initiatives.
• Organizational skills and attention to detail to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other relevant digital marketing tools (Canva, Adobe Creative Cloud programs, etc.)
• Evidence of photography skills such as college courses or previous involvement in a professional capacity.
• Interest in or willingness to learn about the horse racing industry and the regulatory functions of the Virginia Racing Commission.
• Understanding of basic principles of public relations and public image management.
• Ability to learn and adhere to the Virginia Open Meeting Law and Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requirements as they relate to public communications.

Additional Considerations

none

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

Working Conditions:
• Office environment
• Travel – Minimal

Contact Information

Name: Debbie Wyatt-Smith

Phone: 804-292-6414

Email: Debbie.WyattSmith@dhrm.virginia.gov

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.