Retail and Marketing Specialist
Please note: This role and many others are offered through the Southern Hospitality Internship Program, a local government nonprofit program for multiple businesses and internships near Gatlinburg, TN. All roles include competitive pay, housing, networking events, and a leadership track.
Learn more: https://southernhospitalityinternshipprogram.com/
Our store is nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains at The Island in Pigeon Forge, TN. This unique area is part of the oldest mountain range in the world and is right next to the most visited national park in the country. We are within minutes of beautiful hiking trails, historic sights, and many attractions including Dollywood.
As we approach our 100th year in 2027, we are excited for the opportunity to participate in the SHIP program, and we would love to collaborate with SHIP associates in formulating our marketing plans for the next 100 years.
We have already had a successful partnership with the University of Tennessee’s marketing program for a graded class project. Students were required to develop current and future marketing strategies for the store. Through visits to the store and interviews with me, the students gave written and oral reports on current and future marketing ideas for the store. We look forward to continuing to develop our strategies with young talent.
I would like the opportunity to teach about retail through hands-on experience. I have worked many different jobs in the store before becoming the owner and found that experience to be invaluable. Students may also have an opportunity to go to a gift and souvenir trade show if it coincides with their time working at the store.
This job opportunity will provide you with firsthand insight into day-to-day operations of a successful retail business from the ground up. The skills you learn here will prepare you for future management roles in your professional career.
Qualifications
Leadership & Learning Opportunities
Development of future marketing strategies to move into the next century
Interns will gain hands-on experience creating and executing social media marketing plans. They will develop content, manage campaigns across platforms, and track performance to improve engagement and reach target audiences.
Hands-on training across multiple store functions
Exposure to inventory buying and merchandising strategy
Sales performance tracking and business analysis
Team leadership during daily operations
Potential opportunity to attend a regional gift & souvenir trade show (schedule permitting)
Core Responsibilities
Operate cash register accurately and efficiently
Receive, check in, and price merchandise
Maintain clean, organized, and visually appealing displays
Deliver friendly and professional customer service
Support daily opening and closing procedures
Work collaboratively in a fast-paced team environment
Qualifications
Strong work ethic and positive attitude
Honest, dependable, and professional
Ability to follow direction and communicate effectively
Comfortable in a busy retail environment
Reliable transportation
Ability to lift merchandise as needed
Store Schedule
Open 7 days per week
Summer: 10 AM – 11 PM
Spring/Fall: 10 AM – 10 PM
Winter: 11 AM – 8 PM
Time-off requests must be submitted at least two weeks in advance