Market & Event Manager

Position and Organization Summary

Get Fresh Daily (GFD) seeks a dynamic, organized, and community-driven Market & Event Manager to lead the planning, execution, and growth of our vibrant Black Farmer's Market and other key community events. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Market & Event Manager is responsible for ensuring all assigned markets and events operate smoothly, safely, and successfully, serving as vital hubs for community connection, wellness, cultural celebration, and economic opportunity for Black farmers, entrepreneurs, and artists. This role is crucial for activating community spaces (primarily the 52nd Street corridor), enhancing GFD's visibility, and fulfilling our mission to cultivate community wellbeing through food, education, and connection. The Manager will oversee all aspects from vendor/participant recruitment and logistics to on-site management, volunteer coordination, and post-event evaluation.

Get Fresh Daily (GFD) is a mission-driven organization deeply rooted in West Philadelphia, dedicated to cultivating community wellbeing through integrated plant-based living experiences, access to farm-fresh produce, and culturally empowering wellness education. We envision a future where residents enjoy long, healthy, vibrant lives, sustained by nourishing food, strong community bonds, and a connection to earth-centered living. Our work is anchored at Freedom Greens & Gardens, our unique learning and healing space hosted on the grounds of Global Leadership Academy (GLA) at 52nd Street between Pine and Osage, directly facing Malcolm X Park. This longstanding partnership with GLA, serving 1200 local families, places GFD physically and relationally at the heart of a community profoundly impacted by systemic racism, gentrification, and food apartheid. GFD has a proven track record, including successful Farmer’s Market pilots, significant produce distribution, and anchoring major community events like the Philadelphia Juneteenth Parade & Festival.

Job Duties:

• Oversee all on-site operations, vendor management, volunteer recruitment and coordination, and immediate issue resolution for GFD’s Black Farmer’s Markets and related events
• Manage Market Planning and Logistics, and day-of operations
• Recruit and coordinate volunteers
• Manage GFD Vending Table Setup and Management at Markets
• Oversee the online market, including produce box orders, communication with PFW, fulfillment, related customer interactions, and related administrative tasks.
• All other duties as assigned by the Executive Director

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a highly organized, proactive, and resourceful individual with a passion for community building, local food systems, and event management. They are adept at managing multiple priorities, problem-solving in real-time, and fostering positive relationships with diverse stakeholders including vendors, community members, volunteers, and partners. They thrive in a dynamic environment and are committed to GFD's mission of promoting health, equity, and vibrancy in West Philadelphia.

Necessary Characteristics

The Market & Event Manager will have/be:

• 1-3 years of relevant professional experience
• Proven experience in event planning, coordination, and on-site management (minimum 2-3 years). Experience with farmer's markets or similar community-based public events is highly desirable.
• Excellent organizational, logistical, and project management skills with a keen attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal), with the ability to engage effectively and respectfully with diverse individuals and groups.
• Demonstrated ability to recruit, manage, and motivate volunteers.
• Capacity to work independently, take initiative, and manage time effectively.
• Ability to remain calm and problem-solve effectively under pressure and in fast-paced environments.
• Proficiency in basic computer applications (e.g., email, word processing, spreadsheets, online collaboration tools).
• Commitment to Get Fresh Daily’s mission, values, and the West Philadelphia community we serve.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and some evenings, as required by market and event schedules.
• Physical ability to perform tasks associated with event setup/breakdown, including lifting/moving objects up to 30-40 lbs and being on one's feet for extended periods.
• Valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation.

Desirable Characteristics, But Not Required:

• Experience working within or deep familiarity with the West Philadelphia community.
• Knowledge of local food systems, sustainable agriculture, and/or herbalism.
• Experience with vendor recruitment and management, particularly with small-scale farmers or local artisans.
• Familiarity with city permitting processes for public events.
• Experience with budget management and tracking for events.
• Basic marketing and promotional skills, including social media engagement.
• Grant reporting or program evaluation experience.

Mindsets and Skills:

• Community-Focused Mindset: A genuine desire to serve and uplift the community, understanding its needs and assets.
• Collaborative Spirit: Enjoys working with a team and building partnerships.
• Problem-Solving Acumen: Approaches challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset.
• Adaptability & Flexibility: Can pivot and adjust plans as needed in dynamic situations.
• Detail-Oriented Execution: Ensures all logistical aspects are covered for smooth event flow.
• Relationship Builder: Skilled at creating and maintaining positive connections with vendors, volunteers, partners, and attendees.
• Cultural Competency: Demonstrates awareness and respect for diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
• Proactive & Resourceful: Takes initiative to find solutions and make things happen.
• Strong Work Ethic: Reliable, dedicated, and committed to high-quality outcomes.

Application Process: Interested candidates should apply by completing an application here and include the following:

1. A current Resume. Application materials should be submitted as attached documents and saved in the filename format LastName_FirstName_Resume.pdf or .doc with no spaces in the filename (use only underscores in place of spaces).
2. Answers to the following questions:
   • Why you are interested in the Market & Event Manager position at Get Fresh Daily.
   • How your experience and skills align with the "Necessary Characteristics" and "Mindsets and Skills" outlined.
   • Your specific experience with managing markets or community events, highlighting any successes or challenges overcome.
   • Your understanding of, or connection to, the West Philadelphia community (if applicable).

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Location, Compensation, and Benefits

Location: This position is based in West Philadelphia, PA. Work will primarily take place at Get Fresh Daily's Freedom Greens & Gardens site (52nd & Pine), other event locations within the 52nd Street corridor and West Philadelphia, and will include remote administrative work.

Compensation: This is a Part-Time position. June - November, 20 hours per week. The hourly rate for this position is $25 - $40 per hour, commensurate with experience and qualifications.