The Southwest Meat Association (SMA) is a national trade association founded in 1957 to support meat packers and processors through education, advocacy, and industry collaboration. SMA provides members with regulatory guidance, training, networking, and advocacy to promote business growth and stronger industry standards.
Position Summary
The Communications and Operations Manager is responsible for the daily operation of the SMA office tasks and for leading the association’s communication efforts through social media and weekly newsletters, membership administration, support SMA event planning, and office modernization initiatives. This role ensures smooth office workflows, delivers timely member communications, supports membership growth and associate relations.
Report to: President/CEO
Primary Duties
· Office Operations
o Manage day-to-day SMA office operations, including office systems, supplies, and vendor relationships.
· Communications
o Publish and distribute SMA weekly and bi-weekly newsletters.
o Lead the association’s social media content on appropriate channels ensuring consistent messaging and member engagement.
o Manage SMA’s MEAT People podcast.
· Membership Administration
o Manage association membership records and other member-related information; maintain accurate databases
o Publish the annual membership directory and convention program book
· Finance Administration
o Oversee accounts payables and receivables, coordinating invoicing and payment tracking
o Handle bank deposits and basic financial recordkeeping as required.
· Events and Meetings
o Team with the SMA staff and membership to plan and execute the Annual Convention and MEAT Forum, including logistics, registration support, and on-site office activities.
o Manage registration desk at conventions and conferences.
· Office Modernization
o Lead the modernization of association operations by identifying and implementing process improvements, technology upgrades, and efficiency initiatives.
· Other Duties
o Solicit advertising for the newsletter, membership directory, podcast, and other association publications.
o Provide administrative support for President/CEO, including scheduling, correspondence, and document preparation.
o Manage incoming and outgoing mail.
o Perform other duties as needed or assigned to support association goals.
Required Qualifications
· Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree or equivalent pertinent work experience.
· Experience: Previous experience in office administration, association management, or communications
· Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Abode Suite, and other common software required. Preferred competency in creative content software (e.g., Photoshop, Canva) and virtual meeting technology (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams, etc.).
· Demonstrate the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work independently
Skills and Attributes
· Customer-service oriented and able to build positive member relationships.
· Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
· Possess strong interpersonal skills via telephone, email, and in-person.
· Collaborative team player who can coordinate with staff, SMA members, and vendors.
· Proactive problem-solver who drives projects to completion.
· Ability to create impactful social media content
Work Location & Travel
· Location: Bryan, TX
· Travel: Occasional travel required to convention and conferences.
Salary
· Commensurate with qualifications and experience
How to Apply
Submit a resume to SMA President/CEO, Joe Harris, at Joe@southwestmeat.org.
