Decatur Morgan County Tourism, Inc.
Job Description
Job Title: Communications Director
Reporting to: President
FLSA Classification: Exempt
Job Purpose:
The Communications Director for the Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) is responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive communication strategies that enhance the destination's brand, attract visitors, and support the organization's overall mission. This role involves managing media relations, content creation, social media, public relations, and stakeholder communications to promote the destination effectively.
General Responsibilities:
- Develop and execute a comprehensive communication plan that aligns with the DMO's overall marketing and business objectives.
- Collaborate with the sales team to ensure communication strategies are integrated with advertising, digital marketing, and promotional efforts.
- Identify research-based communication, advertising, and marketing strategies to reach the organization’s strategic goals.
- Serve as the communications partner with associated staff on a variety of initiatives identified by the President.
- Identify and respond to all advertising leads and visitors’ inquiries.
- Ensure the database, contact list, and Visitors Registry Book are current and well-organized.
- Maintain a master calendar of events, including all tournaments, special events, and festivals in the city and county.
- Identify search engine optimizations and evaluate Google Analytics to determine the effectiveness of marketing efforts.
- Work as part of a team to host and conduct FAM Tours for industry personnel and other groups.
- Identify key messaging and positioning for the destination to differentiate it in the marketplace.
Media Relations:
- Build and maintain strong relationships with local, national, and international media outlets.
- Serve as the primary spokesperson for the DMO, managing all media inquiries and public statements.
- Develop press releases, media kits, and other materials to support media outreach.
- Organize and coordinate press trips, media events, and interviews to generate positive coverage for the destination.
Content Creation and Management:
- Create high-quality content for various communication channels, including website, social media, newsletters, and print materials.
- Ensure all content reflects the destination's brand voice and resonates with target audiences.
- Manage the production of visual and written content, including videos, photography, articles, and blogs.
Stakeholder Communication:
- Collaborate with local stakeholders, including tourism partners, government agencies, and community organizations, to ensure consistent messaging and alignment of communication efforts.
- Prepare and deliver presentations, reports, and updates to stakeholders, board members, and other key audiences.
- Manage crisis communication efforts, ensuring timely and effective responses to any issues that may arise
Social Media Management:
- Develop and implement social media strategies in partnership with the Social Media Manager that increase engagement and drive awareness of the destination.
- Manage and coordinate the #VisitDecaturAL Ambassador Program.
- Analyze social media performance and adjust strategies as needed to optimize results.
Public Relations:
- Develop and manage public relations campaigns to promote key initiatives, events, and milestones.
- Cultivate relationships with influencers, bloggers, and other key stakeholders to expand the destination's reach.
Qualifications:
- Preferred Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, Public Relations, or related field.
- Experience in website management and social media platforms.
- Preferred Graphic Design experience.
- Previous experience in the tourism and hospitality industry is preferred.
- Ability to work independently and handle tasks of importance to the organization with little or no direction.
- Team player with the ability to work well with others.
- Self-motivated and the ability to multitask.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Attention to detail.
- Microsoft Office Suite basic knowledge, including Word, Excel, email, and Publisher.
Work Requirements:
- This is a full-time position. Work will generally be performed in an office setting.
- This position requires the ability to work a varied schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
- This position may require the ability to travel to attend trade shows, industry meetings, and other relevant events.
- Must possess a valid driver’s license and the ability to operate a motor vehicle.
- Willingness to participate in special training programs and classes as necessary to maintain credibility and to remain current on trends and issues in the tourism industry.
