Benefits:
Competitive salary
Dental insurance
Employee discounts
Health insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
About Us: Traverse City Whiskey Co. is an award-winning craft distillery producing premium whiskey and spirits in the heart of Michigan’s cherry country. We’re entering an exciting growth phase, with the opening of a state-of-the-art whiskey production facility and visitor center. As a brand rooted in tradition and innovation, we're passionate about creating world-class products that whiskey lovers across the nation enjoy. We’re looking for a strategic, creative, and driven Marketing Director to lead our marketing efforts and help elevate Traverse City Whiskey Co. to the next level.
Why Traverse City Whiskey Co.? This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on a nationally recognized brand with a rich heritage and strong ties to the local community. You'll have the autonomy to shape and grow the marketing department, influence the brand’s national presence, and play a key role in the opening of our new whiskey production facility and visitor center, which will solidify Traverse City Whiskey Co. as a destination for whiskey lovers. We offer a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment where creativity and innovation are at the core of everything we do.
Position Overview: We’re looking for a seasoned marketing professional with 6-10 years of experience to establish and lead Traverse City Whiskey Co.'s marketing strategy. While you’ll be responsible for developing the marketing plan, our leadership team will collaborate with you to set the overall brand strategy. Your role will focus on building the company’s marketing presence across multiple channels, driving consumer engagement, and overseeing key marketing functions such as digital marketing, public relations, social media, content creation, and customer experience.
Key Responsibilities:
Collaborate with leadership to refine the brand strategy, then develop and execute a comprehensive marketing plan that supports our core priorities and products.
Lead all aspects of marketing operations, including digital marketing, social media, public relations, content creation, and event marketing.
Collaborate with production and leadership teams to guide products from concept to completion, providing input on product development, packaging design, and market positioning to ensure alignment with brand strategy and consumer trends.
Partner with internal teams (sales, production, and tasting rooms) to align marketing efforts with business goals.
Be an integral part of launching our new whiskey production facility and visitor center, ensuring marketing strategies are in place to promote this new venture.
Oversee the management of digital platforms, including our website, e-commerce, email marketing, and social media channels.
Track and analyze key performance metrics, adjusting strategies as needed to ensure growth and engagement.
Manage relationships with external vendors and agencies, including graphic designers, public relations teams, and event coordinators.
Lead brand collaborations, product launches, and promotional campaigns.
Foster brand storytelling through creative and engaging content, supporting both local and national-level awareness.
Build and lead a small marketing team as the department grows.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Business, or related field (Master’s preferred).
6-10+ years of experience in marketing, preferably within the beverage, CPG, or hospitality industry.
Proven track record of developing and executing successful marketing strategies.
Strong leadership skills with the ability to build and mentor a team.
Experience working closely with leadership to align marketing plans with overall brand strategy.
Hands-on experience with digital marketing tools, including SEO, social media platforms, email marketing, and e-commerce.
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a passion for brand storytelling.
Creative, detail-oriented, and data-driven mindset.
Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
What to Expect:
Competitive Salary with performance-based bonuses.
Health Benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
Simple IRA with company match.
Comprehensive PTO including paid holidays and personal days.
Whiskey Perks – Access to exclusive Traverse City Whiskey Co. bottles, employee discounts (swag, bottles, cocktails)
Company Culture – Join a passionate, close-knit team that’s deeply committed to craft spirits and innovation.
Growth Opportunities – Play a key role in shaping the future of a rapidly growing craft distillery.
Community Engagement – Opportunities to participate in local events, festivals, and our annual bottle release celebration.
Work Location - On-site (Flexible) – Located in the heart of Traverse City, MI, we offer the opportunity to work in a close-knit, inspiring community. Enjoy access to outdoor adventures, a vibrant local culture, and a thriving craft spirits scene.