Growth Marketing & Communications Manager

Hoan Group and Forward 48 are two interconnected organizations that aim to build communities of exceptional leaders across Wisconsin. These organizations serve as vital platforms that bring together trusted members through curated experiences and private dinners in various cities including Milwaukee, Madison, and Green Bay/Fox Valley. As invitation-only membership and emerging leadership programs, respectively, both groups are deeply committed to fostering regional growth and civic engagement. Hoan Group operates as a professional membership community while Forward 48 acts as Wisconsin's premier emerging leadership program, currently in its tenth season with over 500 alumni. Forward 48 continually expands to ensure a strong pipeline of civic leaders in the region.

Both organizations have driven significant visible impacts in the community. Projects such as "Light the Hoan" permanently illuminated Milwaukee's Hoan Bridge, transforming it into one of the city's iconic landmarks. The "Hoancoming" event blends drones, fireworks, and light shows to create a river celebration that rivals large-scale city festivities. Additionally, public art installations through the "Frames" initiative and advocacy efforts like the "Benefits Cliff" policy work for young Wisconsin families showcase these organizations' commitment to cultural enrichment and social progress.

The organizations operate with a small, close-knit team of five members, where each person's contributions directly influence public perception, sponsor engagement, and the organizational systems that support future growth. They seek a Marketing and Communications Manager who will be energized by this opportunity to make an immediate, meaningful impact by building operational infrastructure, managing external brand presence, and representing the organizations in various public and media settings.

The role focuses on outward-facing communications and partnership management, including stewardship of CRM systems, sponsorship pipelines, social media content, press relations, and overall brand consistency across multiple platforms and audiences. Importantly, the candidate will not be responsible for internal member communications or event logistics, as those tasks are managed by other team members. Instead, this position centers on supporting the infrastructure and external narrative that enables these organizations to thrive and grow.

The position offers full-time, salaried employment with a flexible start date in spring or summer 2026 and compensation ranging from $65,000 to $75,000, based on experience. The Marketing and Communications Manager reports directly to the President and will enjoy a hybrid work setting with in-person presence required for key events.

Specific duties span across storytelling and content development, CRM and partnership operations, external communications and public presence, and AI integration and workflow efficiency. Candidates should bring proven expertise in marketing or communications, strong written communication skills, experience with HubSpot and WordPress, proficiency in Canva or similar design platforms, and a genuine fluency in AI tools used to optimize workflow productivity. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, proactive, and have a passion for community-building and local impact. They will thrive in a small team environment and find satisfaction in developing efficient systems and immaculate brand representations.

Overall, this opportunity offers an exciting platform for a marketing professional ready to own the communication narrative of two well-established Wisconsin leadership organizations. The role challenges the candidate to elevate public presence, optimize partnership engagement, and contribute meaningfully to the evolving leadership culture within the state. By fostering external engagement and managing critical operational systems, the Marketing and Communications Manager will play a pivotal role in advancing impactful community transformation in Wisconsin, while working alongside dedicated leaders who value creativity, precision, and authentic connection to the region.