Activation Manager, Retail

Title: Activation Manager, Retail

Location: Chicago, IL

Job Type: Full Time | Exempt

About the Role: We're looking for an Activation Manager - Retail to bring our brand to life across stores in your region. In this remote role, you'll drive localized marketing efforts, tailoring national programs to fit individual states, markets, and retail outlets. You'll partner closely with our Shopper Programming Associates and Retail Sales teams to execute impactful in-store activations, product launches, and consumer engagement programs that create memorable shopper experiences.

If you're a creative, organized marketer who thrives on collaboration and loves connecting consumers to brands in dynamic retail environments-this role is for you.

What You'll Do:

Retail & Event Activation

• Lead in-store merchandising, POS, and promotional execution to ensure consistent brand presentation-across both company-owned and third-party CPG brands.
• Plan and manage local in-store and off-site events that drive engagement and awareness.
• Elevate the shopper experience through compelling, compliant activations and storytelling.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Sales, Marketing, and Compliance teams to achieve regional retail goals.
• Serve as a brand ambassador and uphold brand standards in all activations.
• Coordinate pop-ups, demos, and manage activation calendars across markets.
• Oversee third-party brand promotions and ensure seamless field execution.
• Adapt national and regional marketing plans to meet local regulations.
• Distribute promotional materials and handle incoming retail or field requests.

Promotions & Product Launches

• Support regional product launches through creative promotional planning and flawless execution.
• Equip sales and retail teams with tools, materials, and insights for successful rollouts.

Customer Engagement & Brand Advocacy

• Drive brand excitement and engagement among shoppers and retail staff.
• Collaborate with brand education teams to ensure budtenders are informed and inspired.

What You'll Bring:

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or related field (MBA or advanced degree preferred).
• 4-6 years of experience in field marketing, retail activation, or shopper marketing.
• Proven track record of successful in-store execution and event activation.
• Experience in (or passion for) highly regulated industries such as cannabis, alcohol, tobacco, or pharma.
• Experience partnering with creative, event, or shopper activation agencies.
• Strong organizational, communication, and calendar management skills.
• Creative, innovative mindset with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.
• Willingness to travel up to 25% within assigned regions.