Operations & Marketing Coordinator

Company Description

SAM is a fast-growing and global sensory and consumer research consultancy.  Our mission is to allow consumers a voice in the development of outstanding food, beverage, pet, and health & beauty products so to create high quality and memorable experiences.  We help our clients:

• Develop new product ideas
• Re-energize a well-established product
• Assess product-concept fit or packaging effectiveness
• Understand the product, brand and category competitive landscapes
• Protect product quality through from inception through end of shelf life

SAM The National Food Lab is the division of SAM that provides these services for all USA-based clients.  Our sensory science program resides in our USA headquarters in Minneapolis, MN.

Job Description

Operational Responsibilities

• Strategically create and manage shift schedules for part-time field staff using the Connecteam app, coordinating with Project Coordinators and the Facility Supervisor to ensure appropriate coverage for testing needs (e.g., preparation, warehousing, test execution), while proactively addressing and resolving any coverage challenges.
• Coordinate project scheduling by maintaining timely updates for day-to-day needs in order to manage the Consumer Testing Calendar.
• Ensure a seamless client experience, including account creation, technical support, and addressing any additional needs that may arise using our internal systems.
• Track, assess, analyze, and update the project tracker to ensure PCCs and budgets align with the workload for upcoming projects, enabling informed task assignments to balance and delegate workload effectively.
• Support the Operations Director and team with tasks related to office needs, procurement, and assistance for part-time staff (e.g., time entry, training, technology) to ensure the consistent and smooth execution of all on-site operations.

Marketing Responsibilities

• Manage Tasteocracy’s existing social media presence and marketing automation, while consistently brainstorming and creating engaging content (posts, graphics, videos), implementing best practices for mass communications (email, SMS, push notifications), and using analytics to track performance and optimize campaigns.
• Collaborate with the recruiting team to develop and execute comprehensive marketing plans for taste tests across email, SMS, social media, and other channels, strengthening partnerships with sales and business development teams to create integrated marketing strategies focused on business growth and acquiring new clients.
• Recruit and inform internal participants for Tasteocracy through email, SMS, and push notifications, while expanding creative marketing tactics. Assist with database growth and targeted outreach in Minnesota, California, and New Jersey to acquire new participants using various marketing channels.
• Stay updated on marketing technologies and best practices to enhance Tasteocracy's brand awareness and participant recruitment, while managing Google Ads (SEM/PPC) and creating/managing content (including video) for social media

Qualifications

Educational Background/Experience:

• A college degree or Associate’s degree in Business, Communication Studies, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field.
• Relevant work or internship experience that could be related to marketing, creative marketing, operational support, coordination, or a fast-paced environment may substitute for the educational requirements above.
• We are not necessarily requiring a specific educational background, we’re looking for someone eager and energetic, with an interest in marketing. The ideal candidate will thrive in an upbeat environment, take ownership of multiple projects for the Operations Team, and approach marketing opportunities with enthusiasm and excitement. If this sounds like you, please do not hesitate to apply, if you feel that you check a few of these boxes!

Required Proficiencies with the following Software and Platforms:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and Apple products.
• Familiarity with email marketing platforms (e.g., Dot Digital, Mailchimp, Constant Contact) for creating and managing campaigns.
• Experience with design tools such as Canva or other graphic design software to produce marketing materials.
• Familiarity with marketing and operations platforms like Facebook Ads, Loomly, Microsoft 365, Salesforce, and Adobe is a plus.
• Strong skills in analysis and spreadsheet software, particularly Excel, for tracking, analyzing, and reporting on key business metrics.
• Overall, quick to learn ne`w tools, technologies, and workflows, adapting easily to changes.