DOWNTOWN RETAIL ADVOCATE
NORRISTOWN, PA
Job Description
(Resumes accepted through January 4, 2019.)
Summary: The Retail Recruiter will be responsible for implementing a retail strategy by seeking out developers to invest in downtown Norristown, and by recruiting store and restaurant operators that fit with the merchandise mix plan outlined within the strategy. The Recruiter will build relationships with developers, landlords, and prospective retailers, and will match new retailers with appropriate spaces.
Training, Reporting: The Retail Recruiter will be trained by staff of consulting firm Downtown Works on prospecting, leasing vocabulary, economic terminology, and developer and landlord relations; the Recruiter will report to Jayne Musonye, Director of Planning and Municipal Development.
This is a thirty (30) hour/week consulting position. Office space and supplies will be provided by the Municipality of Norristown.
Essential Functions:
Seek out developers with a track record of creating quality, successful mixed-use projects in an urban setting, and/or with carrying out top-quality renovations of existing buildings.
Prospect for and build relationships with successful independent operators from throughout the region; share the vision for downtown Norristown retail; provide details on the characteristics of specific spaces.
Build rapport with property owners and their real estate representatives; serve as point-of-contact between them and prospective tenants.
Maintain database of tenant prospects and of properties.
Contribute to the development of marketing material.
Work with prospective retailers from initial contact through to store opening.
May work with existing retailers who may need assistance with issues such as merchandising, window display, marketing, etc.
Qualifications:
Skills / Experience
Exemplary verbal and written communications skills.
Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to build solid relationships with and support among stakeholders.
Coalition-building skills, including the ability to motivate, negotiate, and persuade stakeholders into a course of action.
Significant work/life experiences.
Experience in one or more of following: retail; restaurant; sales; marketing; public relations; media design; or related disciplines is helpful though not required.
Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office 2010 and Adobe required; proficiency with database building/maintenance would be of great benefit.
Qualities
Outgoing, friendly personality
Strong interest in style/fashion/shopping/design/food
Strong work ethic, independent, self-motivated, detail-oriented
Tenacious and positive, with a “can do” attitude
Ability to take action quickly
Creative, with innovative implementation skills and solid problem-solving capability
Live in the general vicinity of Norristown and/or have an intimate knowledge of and affinity for Norristown
Well-networked and committed to Norristown
Send CV, references and cover letter no later than noon on January 4, 2019 to Bbulger@norristown.org
