Location: Remote or Hybrid, with occasional in-person meetings in Newton, MA ABOUT UPNEXT UpNext is a company dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and small business owners grow through real-world retail opportunities. We connect emerging brands with pop-up activations, markets, and community-driven retail experiences that help founders test the market, reach new customers, and build sustainable businesses. Through our programs and our online educational platform, The Retail Playground, we support founders with the tools, education, and opportunities they need to navigate retail, marketing, and business growth. Our work centers on making retail more accessible, collaborative, and community-focused for the next generation of small businesses. JOB OVERVIEW UpNext is seeking a Marketing Specialist to help shape and execute marketing initiatives that drive brand visibility, community growth, and membership conversion across our platforms. This part‑time role (20–30 hours per week) reports to the COO and works closely with the Creative Director and Head of Community. This role is ideal for someone who can think strategically and execute quickly, with a strong ability to translate ideas into campaigns that deliver results. You’ll play a key role in shaping how UpNext shows up across activations, digital platforms, and community initiatives. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Own and execute marketing plans to support UpNext programs, activations, and community growth Translate business goals into clear marketing campaigns and timelines Identify opportunities and execute campaigns to grow our online community and membership base Track campaign performance and optimize initiatives to improve engagement and conversions Campaign Development + Content Partner with the Creative Director to plan and execute email and social media campaigns Own copywriting across email, press releases, and key marketing materials Support cross‑channel marketing efforts across UpNext initiatives, including Project: Pop‑Up activations, The Retail Playground, and The Pop‑Up Post Growth + Partnerships Drive marketing support for sponsorships and partnerships, including visibility, promotion, and co‑branded opportunities Identify strategic partnerships that expand reach and visibility for UpNext programs Community + Brand Alignment Work closely with the Head of Community to align marketing with member engagement and program participation Ensure messaging remains consistent with the UpNext brand and mission SUCCESS IN THIS ROLE LOOKS LIKE Growth in Retail Playground membership and engagement Increased visibility and attendance for activations and events Consistent execution of high‑quality email and social campaigns Strong partner and sponsor engagement through marketing initiatives QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Business, or a related field 2+ years of experience in digital marketing, growth marketing, or marketing strategy Strong writing and storytelling skills for email, press, and marketing copy Experience planning and executing digital marketing campaigns across email and social media Ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage multiple projects Strong collaboration skills and comfort working in a small, entrepreneurial team Experience with retail, pop-ups, events, or community-driven brands is a strong plus WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR A self‑starter who takes ownership and follows through Someone who is both strategic and highly execution‑oriented Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, evolving environment with shifting priorities Strong communicator who can translate ideas into clear, compelling messaging Genuine interest in entrepreneurship, retail, and community‑building #J-18808-Ljbffr