Market Manager Position | Grass Lake Market

Market Manager

(Independent Contractor)

Position Summary

The Grass Lake Market is seeking an organized, enthusiastic, and community-minded professional to provide independent contract services as Market Manager. The contractor will be responsible for coordinating and delivering the services necessary for the successful planning and operation of the Grass Lake Market.

The Market Manager serves as the primary point of contact for vendors and coordinates with the Grass Lake Market Board of Directors, volunteers, community partners, and entertainers to deliver successful market events. The current contract includes five market events held on the second Wednesday of each month from May through September.

Nature of the Contract

This is an independent contractor position and is not an employment relationship.

The contractor is engaged to provide defined services and deliverables that support the successful operation of the Grass Lake Market. Except for required market dates, agreed-upon meetings, and established deadlines, the contractor determines how and when the work is performed.

The contractor is responsible for providing the equipment and resources necessary to perform the work, maintaining any required licenses or insurance, and paying all applicable federal, state, and local taxes associated with self-employment. No employee benefits are provided under this contract.

The Grass Lake Market Board of Directors serves as the contract administrator and evaluates completion of the agreed-upon deliverables rather than directing day-to-day work activities.

Scope of Services and Deliverables

The contractor will provide the following services throughout the contract term.

Vendor Management

Recruit vendors and maintain vendor communications to support successful market participation.
Process vendor applications and maintain accurate vendor records.
Assign booth locations and prepare market layouts prior to each event.
Collect vendor fees and coordinate payment tracking with the Treasurer.
Ensure vendor compliance with Market policies and participation requirements.

Market Operations

Coordinate market setup and teardown.
Manage onsite logistics during each market event.
Serve as the primary point of contact for vendors during market hours.
Coordinate volunteers and onsite activities.
Coordinate with the Village of Grass Lake regarding site readiness and maintenance.
Resolve operational issues as they arise during market events.

Marketing and Communications

Provide timely content and information to the Market’s marketing and graphic design team.
Coordinate promotional efforts with community partners.
Distribute vendor communications and market information.
Assist with website updates and event listings.
Serve as liaison with the 5 Healthy Towns Foundation and other community partners, as appropriate.

Administrative Services

Maintain vendor insurance certificates and required documentation.
Maintain accurate vendor databases, attendance records, and market files.
Prepare reports requested by the Board.
Coordinate the annual vendor application and renewal process.
Coordinate financial information and vendor payment records with the Treasurer.

Planning and Coordination

Coordinate market activities and special event logistics.
Coordinate with entertainers, sponsors, community organizations, and volunteers.
Participate in Board meetings as needed to support contract deliverables.
Provide recommendations for continuous improvement of Market operations.

Contract Deliverables

Successful completion of this contract includes:

Planning and management of five scheduled Grass Lake Market events.
Timely vendor recruitment, communication, and placement.
Completed market layouts prior to each event.
Coordination of volunteers, entertainment, and event logistics.
Maintenance of vendor records and required documentation.
Accurate attendance and participation records.
Completion of Board requested reports.
Coordination of the annual vendor application process.

Estimated Time Commitment

Off Season (October through April)

Approximately 5 to 10 hours per month.

Market Season (May through September)

Approximately 15 to 25 hours per market, including planning, vendor communication, promotion, coordination, onsite management, and follow up.

Compensation

The total compensation for this independent contractor agreement is $4,500 for services provided during the January through December contract term.

Payment will be made in installments upon receipt of invoices submitted by the contractor according to the payment schedule established in the contract.

Preferred Qualifications

Excellent customer service and communication skills.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Experience coordinating events, farmers' markets, or community programs.
Proficiency with spreadsheets, email, and online communication tools.
Ability to independently prioritize work, solve problems, and meet established deadlines.
Passion for supporting local food, artisans, small businesses, and community events.

Physical Requirements

Contract services include working outdoors in varying weather conditions during market events. The contractor should be able to walk throughout the event site, lift and carry approximately 30 pounds, and perform light setup and teardown activities as necessary to fulfill contract obligations.

Contract Administrator

The Grass Lake Market Board of Directors serves as the contract administrator for this agreement and reviews the completion of contract deliverables.

Application Information

Applications will be accepted through August 15, 2026.

Please submit:

Cover Letter
Resume

Email application materials to grasslakemarket@gmail.com with the subject line Market Manager Position.

The Board of Directors will begin reviewing applications and conducting interviews following the application deadline. The contract term is expected to begin in January 2027.

Equal Opportunity

The Grass Lake Market is an equal opportunity organization. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We believe a diverse and inclusive marketplace strengthens our community.