Central States Marketing

Central States Marketing is looking for an in-office Video Specialist who blends hands-on production, strong storytelling instincts, and advanced motion graphics with AI-driven workflows. If you love being behind the camera, post-production editing, and you’re actively using AI to work smarter and push creative boundaries — this role is for you. Duties and Responsibilities )Strong understanding of storytelling, pacing and narrative structureExpertise in animation and motion design, with a portfolio showcasing your work.Experience using AI tools in creative or production workflowsHigh attention to detail and strong creative judgmentExcellent communication and collaboration skills in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work on multiple projects simultaneously. The starting salary for this role is $40,000 annually; however, the final compensation will be determined based on the candidate’s experience, skills, and qualifications.

Central States Marketing is looking for an experienced, highly motivatedVideo Producerto lead our video department and elevate the quality, strategy, and performance of our content. We believe powerful storytelling drives connection and results. This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of video and AI‑driven storytelling while leading a talented and growing creative team.SUBMISSIONS WITHOUT A SAMPLE REEL WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.Leadership & Team DevelopmentLead, motivate, and mentor the video/content production team through collaboration, accountability, and creative excellence.Foster a positive, solutions‑oriented culture focused on growth, innovation, teamwork, and continuous improvement.Lead by example with professionalism, communication, organization, and work ethic.Provide clear direction, feedback, and support for growth in storytelling, production, editing, and strategic thinking skills.Manage workflows, timelines, project priorities, and production schedules effectively.Creative Strategy & Story DevelopmentConceptualize and oversee compelling video and multimedia content for clients across multiple industries.Develop strategic storytelling approaches that align with brand goals, audience behavior, and campaign objectives.Create content, branded storytelling, recruitment campaigns, testimonials, social‑first videos, commercials, and digital campaigns.Collaborate closely with creative, media, strategy, and account teams to ensure content aligns with broader marketing initiatives.Translate complex messaging into engaging, emotionally driven stories.Push beyond execution to bring thoughtful, strategic storytelling to every project.Oversee all phases of video production including pre‑production, scripting, storyboarding, directing, editing, sound, animation, and final delivery.Direct on‑location shoots and interviews with confidence and professionalism.Ensure projects are delivered on time, on brand, and at a high creative standard.Create and oversee motion graphics and animation using tools like After Effects.Ensure all deliverables are optimized for digital, social, broadcast, streaming, web, and paid media platforms.Innovation & Workflow ImprovementUtilize tools (including AI) to improve scripting, ideation, editing workflows, captioning, content repurposing, and production efficiency.Stay ahead of emerging trends in AI‑driven content creation and digital storytelling.Continuously evaluate and improve production workflows.Stay current on video trends, formats, and platform performance.Help evolve the agency’s approach to scalable, high‑performing content creation while maintaining authenticity and creativity.Qualifications5+ years of professional experience in video production, creative storytelling, content strategy, or creative leadership.Proven experience leading or mentoring creative teams.Strong storytelling instincts and the ability to connect emotionally with audiences.Experience with AI‑powered creative tools and emerging content technologies.Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, Premiere Pro, After Effects, DaVinci Resolve, or equivalent platforms.Strong organizational, communication, and project management skills.Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced agency environment.Ideal CandidatesConfident leader and team builder who leads with positivity, accountability, and vision.Strategic thinker who understands both creativity and business goals.Passionate storyteller who understands why content works—not just how to create it.Hands‑on producer with experience across shooting, editing, and motion graphics.Proactive thinker who brings ideas—not just executes tasks.Collaborative leader who thrives in a fast‑moving, team‑oriented culture.The starting salary for this role is $60,000 annually; however, the final compensation will be determined based on the candidate’s experience, skills, and qualifications.Central States Marketing offers an attractive compensation package, which includes a competitive salary, 401(k) plan, PTO, holiday pay, and a comprehensive benefits program. CSM is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to an inclusive workplace. Anyone interested is encouraged to apply and CSM does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Central States Marketing is seeking a dynamic and motivatedTraditional Media Buyer/Strategistto join our media team. You\'ll be joining a company recognized as one of Central Illinois\'s most innovative leaders in marketing. The Traditional Media Buyer/Strategist is responsible for developing, executing, and optimizing integrated media strategies that support client objectives across traditional and digital channels. The position oversees media initiatives across out-of-home (OOH), print, as well as support digital and social media strategy and reporting in Google Data Studio. The ideal candidate is strategic, analytical, highly organized, and capable of managing multiple projects, deadlines, and vendor relationships in a fast-paced agency environment.Key ResponsibilitiesCollaborate on the development of strategic media plans aligned with client objectives, target audiences, and budget parameters.Coordinate, develop, and execute traditional media buys across print and out-of-home (OOH)Manage insertion orders (IOs) from creation through approval, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and alignment with campaign strategy.Support the planning and execution of integrated digital campaigns across social media, search, display, video, and other emerging platforms.Assist in the development of media proposals, audience insights, budget recommendations, and client-facing presentation materials.Conduct market research, audience analysis, and competitive reviews to inform media recommendations and strategic planning.Collaborate with accounts, creative, digital, and production teams to ensure cohesive campaign execution and messaging across channels.Monitor campaign pacing, delivery, and performance, implementing optimizations and adjustments as needed to maximize effectiveness.Support campaign reporting and dashboard development through Google Data Studio, translating performance data into actionable insights.Assist in establishing campaign KPIs, measurement frameworks, and reporting standards to evaluate success.Build and maintain relationships with media vendors, publishers, and platform representatives to secure effective placements and value-added opportunities.Present media recommendations, campaign results, and strategic insights to internal teams and clients as needed.Stay informed on industry trends, emerging media channels, consumer behavior, and advertising technologies.Contribute to new business initiatives, RFP responses, and agency growth opportunities.QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Communications, or a related field.1-2 years of experience in a marketing role or relevant internship experience.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)Familiarity with Asana and Monday.comFamiliarity with social media platforms and content management systems.Basic knowledge of graphic design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) is a plus.Knowledge of Google Data Studio Studio is a plusExcellent organizational skills and attention to detail.Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.Creative and innovative thinker.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Team player with a positive attitude.Self-motivated and eager to learn.The starting salary for this role is $45,000 annually; however, the final compensation will be determined based on the candidate’s experience, skills, and qualifications.Central States Marketing offers an attractive compensation package, which includes a competitive salary, 401(k) plan, PTO, holiday pay, and a comprehensive benefits program.

Central States Marketing is seeking a dynamic and motivatedTraditional Media Buyer/Strategistto join our media team. You\'ll be joining a company recognized as one of Central Illinois\'s most innovative leaders in marketing. The Traditional Media Buyer/Strategist is responsible for developing, executing, and optimizing integrated media strategies that support client objectives across traditional and digital channels. The position oversees media initiatives across out-of-home (OOH), print, as well as support digital and social media strategy and reporting in Google Data Studio. The ideal candidate is strategic, analytical, highly organized, and capable of managing multiple projects, deadlines, and vendor relationships in a fast-paced agency environment.Key ResponsibilitiesCollaborate on the development of strategic media plans aligned with client objectives, target audiences, and budget parameters.Coordinate, develop, and execute traditional media buys across print and out-of-home (OOH)Manage insertion orders (IOs) from creation through approval, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and alignment with campaign strategy.Support the planning and execution of integrated digital campaigns across social media, search, display, video, and other emerging platforms.Assist in the development of media proposals, audience insights, budget recommendations, and client-facing presentation materials.Conduct market research, audience analysis, and competitive reviews to inform media recommendations and strategic planning.Collaborate with accounts, creative, digital, and production teams to ensure cohesive campaign execution and messaging across channels.Monitor campaign pacing, delivery, and performance, implementing optimizations and adjustments as needed to maximize effectiveness.Support campaign reporting and dashboard development through Google Data Studio, translating performance data into actionable insights.Assist in establishing campaign KPIs, measurement frameworks, and reporting standards to evaluate success.Build and maintain relationships with media vendors, publishers, and platform representatives to secure effective placements and value-added opportunities.Present media recommendations, campaign results, and strategic insights to internal teams and clients as needed.Stay informed on industry trends, emerging media channels, consumer behavior, and advertising technologies.Contribute to new business initiatives, RFP responses, and agency growth opportunities.QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Communications, or a related field.1-2 years of experience in a marketing role or relevant internship experience.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)Familiarity with Asana and Monday.comFamiliarity with social media platforms and content management systems.Basic knowledge of graphic design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) is a plus.Knowledge of Google Data Studio Studio is a plusExcellent organizational skills and attention to detail.Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.Creative and innovative thinker.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Team player with a positive attitude.Self-motivated and eager to learn.The starting salary for this role is $45,000 annually; however, the final compensation will be determined based on the candidate’s experience, skills, and qualifications.Central States Marketing offers an attractive compensation package, which includes a competitive salary, 401(k) plan, PTO, holiday pay, and a comprehensive benefits program.

You’ll be joining a company considered one of Central Illinois’ most innovative leaders in marketing. The Media Buyer supports the marketing department by assisting in the planning, execution, coordination, and tracking of traditional and digital media campaigns. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple timelines and vendor relationships in a fast-paced environment.Key Responsibilities Coordination, development, and execution of traditional media buys across print, out-of-home (OOH), radio, and broadcast channels with moderate independenceBuild and manage full media plans, including budget allocation, flighting strategies, market selection, and channel mixLead negotiations with vendors, stations, and publishers to secure competitive rates, added value, and premium placementsMaintain strong vendor relationships and proactively identify new media opportunities or cost efficienciesOwn insertion orders (IOs) from creation through approval, ensuring accuracy and alignment with campaign strategySupport the development and tracking of media schedules, insertion orders (IOs), and placement confirmationsOversee campaign timelines and ensure all placements launch on schedule, troubleshooting issues as they ariseCollaborate with internal teams (creative, account, digital) to align messaging, assets, and campaign executionMonitor campaign pacing and performance, making real-time optimizations to improve delivery and efficiencyLead post-campaign reconciliation, including invoice validation and discrepancy resolutionLead on trafficking, documentation, and vendor communication on media buysStay informed on market trends, pricing shifts, and emerging opportunities within traditional mediaCollaborate with digital teams to align cross-channel strategy, support performance tracking, and contribute to integrated campaign reporting and insights.Assist in monitoring digital media campaign performance through reporting dashboards and analytics toolsQualificationsBachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Communications, or a related field.1-2 years of experience in a marketing role or relevant internship experience.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)Familiarity with Asana and Familiarity with social media platforms and content management systems.Basic knowledge of graphic design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) is a plus.Knowledge of Google Looker Studio is a plusExcellent organizational skills and attention to detail.Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.Creative and innovative thinker.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Team player with a positive attitude.Self-motivated and eager to learn.Central States Marketing offers an attractive compensation package, which includes a competitive salary, 401(k) plan, PTO, holiday pay, and a comprehensive benefits program. CSM is an equal-opportunity employer committed to an inclusive workplace. Anyone interested is encouraged to apply and CSM does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Summary: You’ll be joining a company considered one of Central Illinois’ most innovative leaders in marketing. The Media Coordinator supports the marketing department by assisting in the planning, execution, coordination, and tracking of traditional and digital media campaigns. Assist in the coordination and execution of traditional media placements, including print, out-of-home (OOH), radio, and broadcast advertising supportSupport the development and tracking of media schedules, insertion orders (IOs), and placement confirmationsCoordinate with media vendors, publishers, station reps, and production partners to ensure timely ad deliveryReview advertising specifications and assist in ensuring all creative materials meet technical requirementsTrack campaign placements and collect proof of performance (tear sheets, affidavits, confirmations)Prepare reports, summaries, and presentation materials for internal stakeholdersSupport post-campaign reconciliation, including verification of placements and invoice matchingDevelop supporting materials such as media plans, budget tracking sheets, and campaign asset listsAssist in monitoring digital media campaign performance through reporting dashboards and analytics toolsSupport the collection and organization of performance data (traffic, impressions, reach, and conversions)Help prepare basic reports summarizing digital campaign results for internal reviewCoordinate with internal teams to ensure assets are delivered on time and correctly implementedWork closely with the Media Director and Digital Director to ensure alignment across campaignsRequirements: Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Communications, or a related field.1-2 years of experience in a marketing role or relevant internship experience.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)Familiarity with Asana and Monday.comFamiliarity with social media platforms and content management systems.Basic knowledge of graphic design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) is a plus.Knowledge of Google Looker Studio is a plusExcellent organizational skills and attention to detail.Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.Creative and innovative thinker.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Team player with a positive attitude.Self-motivated and eager to learn.Compensation and Benefits: