In October of 2011 I was promoted to Marketing Director for Retail Alliance. The Marketing Director position is a multi-dimensional role with numerous responsibilities. Working for a non-profit has taught me how to manage multiple tasks at once; you have to be able to wear several different hats in this business. As the Marketing Director, I manage company-wide communications, develop strategic marketing initiatives, write, edit, and design all promotional marketing materials, run product and service spotlight campaigns and administer website copy, e-news campaigns, print newsletters and graphic design projects. My goals are to organize marketing and communications activities on behalf of the association in a professional and timely manner, support the overall mission of Retail Alliance, and enhance our brand while maintaining the organization’s position as the premier association serving the needs of our members.

In July of 2010 I accepted a new position at Retail Alliance. Along with planning our monthly networking meetings, the annual Hampton Roads Media Fest, Retailer of the Year Awards Show and the Virginia Retail Loss Prevention Conference, I expanded my role and joined the association's advocacy program as Public Affairs Coordinator. With this position I managed our grassroots communications with state and federal legislators and state agencies that impact retail operations and issues. In addition, I focused on growing the agenda for our advocacy program including developing efforts to identify and mobilize retail members for grassroots lobbying and coordinating a visit from a group of Chinese retail executives to the United States.“Jen brings considerable ‘people’ skills, organizational detail and planning expertise to her new position. We are most pleased she is continuing to grow with Retail Alliance in our advocacy outreach and development,” -Susan Milhoan, CEO/President of Retail Alliance.

As the Event Planner and Communications Coordinator for Retail Alliance, I enhanced brand awareness and local presence through creating, organizing, and managing our special events. Our events range from trade shows and banquets, to small networking meetings and educational seminars. I was responsible for implementing promotional plans, writing press releases, soliciting media coverage, and writing articles for the Retail Angles monthly newsletter.

As the marketing intern for Norfolk Fest Events I assisted with the production and implementation of the following special events: Harborfest, Sail Virginia, the 400th Anniversary of Jamestown and Jazz Fest.