Marketing Planning Specialist

About us

Rural King is America’s Farm and Home Store, providing essentials to the communities we serve. With a wide array of necessities ranging from food and feed to farm and home products, Rural King serves over 150 locations across 17 states and is constantly expanding
. Our annual sales exceed $2.5 Billion
, and our heart beats in Mattoon, IL, home to our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store.

One thing our customers appreciate is our unique shopping experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee
. It's just one way we show our appreciation for their support.

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We offer growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment where dedicated individuals come together to serve rural communities passionately. Join us, and you'll find not just a job but a chance to grow professionally
, contribute meaningfully, and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

How we reward you

401(k) plan that provides a 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% of the next 2%

Healthcare plans to support your needs

Virtual doctor visits

Access to Centers of Excellence with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic’s Complex Care Program

15% Associate Discount

Dave Ramsey’s Smart Dollar Program

Associate Assistance Program

RK Cares Associate Hardship Program

24/7 Chaplaincy Services

Company paid YMCA Family Membership

As a Category Marketing Planning Specialist you will be a crucial function in shaping and impeccably executing strategies and initiatives that support key promotions, product categories, and brands in alignment with Rural King's overarching strategic roadmap. This role encompasses the leadership of cross‑functional teams, the oversight of third‑party agencies, and the collaboration with internal and external partners to attain overarching business objectives.

In addition, the position carries the responsibility of managing vendor CO-OP funds that complement the core RK marketing budget.

• Develop and execute marketing plans and assets by leveraging a variety of marketing channels (digital, social, email, store POP, print, TV/radio, public relations, experiential events, etc.).
• Transform data‑driven insights into actionable strategies.
• Present and align strategies with senior leadership.
• Ensure tactical alignment with channel owners.
• Provide precise creative guidance to both internal and external creative collaborators.
• Ensure operational coordination with field teams.
• Oversee the entire spectrum of execution details, from development to deployment.
• Compile and effectively communicate results.
• Interpret and optimize programs based on performance metrics.
• Lead strategy development, internal socialization, and cross‑functional execution of marketing programs for key brands, categories, and services.
• Determine an appropriate integrated marketing support plan inclusive of CRM, digital, social, in‑store environment, internal communication, and budget.
• Ensure flawless execution of tactical elements of marketing programs, including setting up promotional elements, working collaboratively with various Marketing teams, ensuring communication to store team, communication with vendors, keeping leaders informed, etc.
• Lead national events for key categories and brands, and other national merchandising events developed.
• Partner heavily with Merchants and Leadership to ensure programs align with and support business priorities; report out on results and learnings.
• Leverage internal resources and external partners for programs to provide the maximum return to the organization. External partners may include advertising agencies, PR agencies, Print Suppliers, media agencies, packaging vendors, consultants.
• Proactively work with key vendor partners and merchants to fully leverage vendor assets and funds.
• Lead associates in a way that exemplifies the leadership principles taught in Rural King’s Thrive Leadership Program.
• Use discretion and independent judgment in daily decisions while maintaining a high level of confidentiality and professionalism.
• Actively participate in learning…