Director of Communications

North Carolina Retail Merchants Association (NCRMA)

Director of Communications

North Carolina Retail Merchants Association (NCRMA)

Position Summary

The Director of Communications leads the strategy, development, and execution of all communications,
marketing, and media relations for the North Carolina Retail Merchants Association (NCRMA) and its affiliated
organizations (collectively, “the Association”). This role is responsible for shaping how the Association shows
up to its members, prospective members, and the broader public - ensuring a cohesive, compelling, and
consistent narrative across all channels.

The Director serves as the primary architect of the Association’s voice, brand, and visibility, aligning
communications with the Association’s advocacy, member services, and industry leadership.

This role requires a genuine passion for the retail industry and an appreciation for its full spectrum - from small, independent businesses to national and global brands - and the vital role retailers play in North Carolina’s communities and economy.

Reporting & Team Structure
• Reports to: NCRMA President & General Counsel
• Direct Reports: 1 (Multimedia Design Specialist)

Core Responsibilities

1. Member Communications & Value Storytelling

Own how the Association communicates its value to current members by clearly and consistently
showcasing the work done on their behalf.
Serve as a strategic communications partner across all member-facing communications - including
legislative updates, newsletters, publications, and operational resources - providing editorial guidance
to ensure clarity, accuracy, and consistency in voice, messaging, and brand
Coordinate and maintain the editorial calendar for key publications, including The Retailer and
ExpressLine, in collaboration with internal teams
Partner with government relations and member services teams to translate complex advocacy,
regulatory, and industry issues into clear, engaging content
Ensure communications reflect and represent the diversity of the Association’s membership - from
independent retailers to large national brands - while highlighting their shared impact
Support grassroots advocacy efforts through strategic messaging and member engagement campaigns

2. Marketing & Membership Growth

Lead marketing efforts to attract and retain members, with an emphasis on storytelling, referrals, and
demonstrating member value.
Develop and execute marketing strategies in partnership with membership and leadership to support
recruitment, retention, and strategic growth
Create compelling marketing materials (digital and print), including brochures, videos, and campaigns
Elevate member stories and testimonials as a core driver of recruitment and engagement
Identify and cultivate relationships with industry leaders, partners, and institutions to expand the
Association’s reach and visibility

3. Public Relations, Media & Brand Leadership

Shape the Association’s public presence and reputation through strategic media engagement and
strong brand stewardship.
Serve as the primary media relations lead, developing press materials, coordinating interviews, and
building relationships with reporters and media outlets
Oversee third-party PR efforts and targeted media placements
Lead public-facing campaigns (e.g., ShopNC) to promote the retail industry’s impact on communities,
careers, and innovation
Own the Association’s brand identity, ensuring consistency in messaging, visuals, and tone across all
platforms
Lead strategy for digital presence, including websites, social media, and emerging channels

In addition to the core responsibilities above, this role also encompasses:

Leadership & Organizational Strategy

Collaborate with the President, staff, and Board to define and execute communications and marketing
strategy, while leading brand and communications efforts across the Association
Manage and mentor the Multimedia Design Specialist, overseeing all design-related projects
Continuously evaluate and refine communications strategies to increase engagement, visibility, and
impact

Qualifications

Experience in communications, public relations, marketing, or a related field, including media relations
and strategic communications
Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills across multiple formats
Demonstrated ability to translate complex issues into clear, compelling messaging
Experience managing brand strategy and multi-channel communications
Ability to collaborate across teams and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Familiarity with emerging communications tools and technologies (including AI), with the ability to use
them as tools to enhance - rather than replace - strategic thinking, creativity, and sound judgment
Experience in associations, public policy, or advocacy environments preferred, including familiarity
with the legislative and regulatory process
Ability to attend events and travel periodically within North and South Carolina

About You

You are passionate about the retail industry and understand its impact on local communities, economic
growth, and innovation
You appreciate the unique challenges and opportunities facing both independent retailers and large,
multi-state operators - and can communicate in a way that resonates with both
You are a strategic communicator and storyteller who can translate complex issues into compelling
narratives that drive engagement, advocacy, and growth
You are collaborative, proactive, and comfortable operating in a fast-paced, relationship-driven
environment
You are adaptable and comfortable working in a highly collaborative, cross-functional environment,
and are willing to step in where needed - whether supporting events, assisting with logistics, or
contributing beyond your core responsibilities

Affiliated organizations include the Carolinas Food Industry Council (CFIC), the Carolinas Organized Retail Crime Alliance (CORCA), the South Carolina Retail Association (SCRA), and the Retail Consumer Alliance Foundation (RCA).

For questions or to express interest in this position, please contact: info@ncrma.org

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