📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Marketing Manager
🔹 Company: Salt & Straw
🔹 Location: Portland Support Center - Portland, OR
🔹 Job Type: Full-time
🔹 Category: Marketing
🔹 Date Posted: 2025-04-24
🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years
🔹 Remote Status: Hybrid
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Leading integrated marketing campaigns for product launches, partnerships, and seasonal moments
- Managing new shop openings and local activations
- Driving post-opening engagement through community events and local partnerships
- Supporting shop-level events and seasonal initiatives
- Collaborating cross-functionally to translate national campaigns into shop-level programs
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a balance of strategic thinking and hands-on execution, with a focus on driving brand awareness, guest engagement, and business growth.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Own the execution of and contribute to planning integrated marketing campaigns for product launches, partnerships, and seasonal moments
✅ Lead marketing planning and execution for new shop openings in collaboration with Operations, Real Estate, and local teams
✅ Own and manage end-to-end execution of marketing initiatives, including campaign planning, creative development, cross-functional coordination, and in-market activation
✅ Serve as the marketing lead for shop-level execution, acting as the central point of accountability for related planning, implementation, and performance outcomes
✅ Drive post-opening engagement through community events, local partnerships, and neighborhood-specific marketing
✅ Support shop-level events and seasonal initiatives that build brand buzz and increase foot traffic
✅ Collaborate with the marketing team to lead in-store efforts, including menu storytelling, signage, and merchandising, ensuring an on-brand, guest-centered experience
✅ Partner cross-functionally to translate national campaigns and initiatives into actionable, shop-level programs
✅ Champion shop needs and guest insights in broader marketing strategy discussions
✅ Identify creative, cost-effective ways to amplify retail marketing while aligning with brand and business objectives
✅ Promote a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement by evaluating campaign performance and operational effectiveness
✅ Monitor key metrics, analyze outcomes, and share insights and recommendations with the Director of Brand Marketing to inform future strategy
✅ Foster an engaging team environment by modeling open communication, coaching for growth, and living Salt & Straw’s mission and values
ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor’s degree in marketing, advertising, communications, or a related field
Experience: 5+ years of marketing experience, ideally with a focus on retail, experiential, or local activation
Required Skills:
- Proven ability to collaborate cross-functionally and communicate effectively across levels
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex marketing projects from concept to execution
- Strong storytelling and brand instincts with a deep understanding of consumer engagement and community connection
- Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data, generate insights, and make informed, data-driven decisions
- Ability to translate insights from R&D, founders, and partners into compelling, on-brand marketing
- Curious and committed to learning best practices in consumer research, marketing, and PR
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to foster connection, trust, and alignment across teams
- Self-directed and results-oriented; organized, detail-focused, and able to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines
- Adaptable, proactive, and comfortable navigating shifting business needs and ambiguity
- Fluent in English
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with omnichannel marketing, brand partnerships, and culturally relevant brand-building strategies
- Familiarity with the ice cream industry or similar food and beverage sectors
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with experience in retail marketing, event planning, and community engagement are strongly preferred.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $85,000 - $95,000 annually, with a full earning potential of $85,000 - $115,000
Benefits:
- Competitive pay with regular performance-based increases
- Flexible Time Off and sick leave to support work-life balance
- 12 weeks paid parental leave
- Access to 401(k) with company match
- Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision
- Mental health support 24/7, including on-site counseling
- Educational assistance and exclusive employee perks
- Dog-friendly, hybrid office culture and an inclusive, people-first environment
Working Hours: Full-time, with occasional travel required
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is actively transparent and highlights the full earning potential within the broader range.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Food & Beverages, specifically Ice Cream Retail
Company Size: 1,001-5,000 employees, offering a large team environment with ample growth opportunities
Founded: 2011, with a history of steady growth and expansion
Company Description:
- At Salt & Straw, anything is possible. Crafted with unthinkable care, our team cooks, freezes, candies, smashes, drizzles, ribbons, spoons, and sprinkles, creating flavor profiles that awaken taste buds.
- Using ice cream as a blank slate for storytelling, we fearlessly explore ingredients, discover emerging artisans, and share inspiring, unifying experiences.
- Our mission is to create moments of wonder, one scoop at a time.
Company Specialties:
- Food
- Beverage
- Ice Cream
- Retail
Company Website: http://www.saltandstraw.com
ASSUMPTION: Salt & Straw is known for its innovative ice cream flavors and commitment to community engagement.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid-level, with opportunities for growth and advancement within the marketing department and the company as a whole
Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Director of Brand Marketing, with cross-functional collaboration with various teams, including Operations, Real Estate, and local teams
Work Arrangement: Hybrid, with a balance of remote work and on-site collaboration at the Portland Support Center
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential to take on additional responsibilities and advance within the marketing department
- Possibility to transition into a leadership role as the company continues to expand
- Chance to gain experience in various aspects of marketing, including campaign management, event planning, and community engagement
ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique blend of strategic thinking and hands-on execution, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Hybrid, with a balance of remote work and on-site collaboration at the Portland Support Center
Office Location(s): Portland, OR
Geographic Context:
- Portland is known for its vibrant food scene, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation opportunities
- The Portland Support Center is centrally located, offering easy access to public transportation and nearby amenities
- The Pacific Northwest region is renowned for its natural beauty and mild climate
Work Schedule: Full-time, with occasional travel required for new shop openings and local activations
ASSUMPTION: The hybrid work arrangement offers flexibility and a healthy work-life balance, while the Portland location provides a dynamic and engaging work environment.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screen with the HR team
- In-depth behavioral interview with the hiring manager and team members
- Final round interview with key stakeholders
- Background check and offer extension
Key Assessment Areas:
- Problem-solving skills and ability to manage complex marketing projects
- Strategic thinking and ability to translate insights into actionable marketing initiatives
- Communication and collaboration skills, both written and verbal
- Cultural fit and alignment with Salt & Straw’s mission and values
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant marketing experience and skills
- Prepare for behavioral interview questions by reflecting on past experiences and accomplishments
- Research Salt & Straw’s brand, mission, and values to demonstrate your enthusiasm and cultural fit
- Be prepared to discuss your long-term career goals and how this role fits into your professional development plan
ATS Keywords: Marketing Manager, Marketing Experience, Campaign Management, Brand Storytelling, Consumer Research, Retail Marketing, Event Planning, Community Engagement, Strategic Thinking, Data Analysis
ASSUMPTION: The interview process is designed to assess your skills, experience, and cultural fit, with a focus on finding the best candidate for this role.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, or JIRA)
- Marketing automation and analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Mailchimp, or HubSpot)
- Social media management tools (e.g., Hootsuite or Sprout Social)
- Design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite or Canva)
ASSUMPTION: Proficiency in relevant marketing tools and technologies is preferred, but not required, as training will be provided.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Create The Unbelievable
- Show Up Generously
- Act With Thoughtful Curiosity
- Share Human Kindness
- Make It Count
Work Style:
- Collaborative and cross-functional, with a focus on open communication and teamwork
- Adaptable and proactive, with a willingness to navigate shifting business needs and ambiguity
- Results-oriented and detail-focused, with a strong commitment to quality and excellence
- Hospitality-minded, with a genuine desire to create memorable experiences for guests and team members
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you align with Salt & Straw’s mission to create moments of wonder, one scoop at a time?
- Describe a time when you demonstrated thoughtfulness and curiosity in a marketing project or initiative.
- How do you approach balancing strategic thinking with hands-on execution in your work?
- Can you provide an example of a time when you successfully managed a complex marketing project from concept to execution?
- How do you foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement within your team?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates who demonstrate a strong alignment with Salt & Straw’s values and work style are most likely to succeed in this role.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Managing multiple projects and priorities with tight deadlines
- Navigating shifting business needs and ambiguity
- Occasional travel for new shop openings and local activations
- Balancing strategic thinking with hands-on execution
- Ensuring consistent, on-brand marketing across various channels and touchpoints
ASSUMPTION: These challenges can be overcome with strong project management skills, adaptability, and a results-oriented mindset.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Marketing Manager vs. Marketing Coordinator: A Marketing Manager role typically involves more strategic decision-making, team leadership, and cross-functional collaboration, while a Marketing Coordinator role focuses more on tactical execution and administrative tasks.
- Industry-specific context: The ice cream retail industry has unique marketing considerations, such as seasonal fluctuations, local community engagement, and event-driven promotions.
- Career path comparison: A Marketing Manager role can lead to advancement into director-level or leadership positions within the marketing department or other areas of the business.
ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique blend of strategic thinking and hands-on execution, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development within the marketing department and the company as a whole.
📝 Sample Projects
- Planning and executing a grand opening event for a new Salt & Straw shop, including local partnerships, community engagement, and in-store activations
- Developing a targeted marketing campaign to drive foot traffic and increase sales during a slow season
- Collaborating with the R&D team to launch a new, innovative ice cream flavor and promoting it across various marketing channels
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the diverse range of marketing initiatives and responsibilities for this role.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- Can you describe the marketing team structure and how this role fits within the organization?
- How does Salt & Straw approach cross-functional collaboration, and what are the key stakeholders for this role?
- What are the most significant marketing challenges facing the company, and how can this role address them?
- How does Salt & Straw support the professional development and growth of its marketing team members?
- What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for this role, and how will success be measured?
ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful, informed questions demonstrates your interest in the role and commitment to understanding the company’s marketing strategy.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant marketing experience and skills
- Prepare for behavioral interview questions by reflecting on past experiences and accomplishments
- Research Salt & Straw’s brand, mission, and values to demonstrate your enthusiasm and cultural fit
- Be prepared to discuss your long-term career goals and how this role fits into your professional development plan
- Follow up with the hiring manager one week after your interview to express your continued interest in the position
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
