Executive Director
Not many small towns boast an award winning state resort park, national battlefield, premiere performance venues, one of the world’s most technologically advanced planetariums, and country music legends. But in Prestonsburg, KY, we do. From live entertainment to heritage exhibits and scenic Appalachian mountain tours, we offer adventures unlike any other. Country cuisine, songs sung proudly by their storyteller, moonshine made deep in the mountains, nature that nurtures its creatures, and people that are eager to share a cup of coffee, this is the place we call home.
The Prestonsburg Tourism Commission is seeking an innovative leader who will be a critical and highly visible leader, supporting the City of Prestonsburg in creating a desirable community and destination. The Executive Director will manage all tourism activities including developing, planning, implementing and evaluating marketing, advertising, and public relations programs.
The individual will have a comprehensive knowledge of the tourism industry and trends; strong oral and written communications skills and the ability to:
- establish and maintain effective working relationships with public officials, regional attractions, businesses, citizen groups, and the general public;
- provide leadership with co-workers and business partners;
- prepare and present comprehensive marketing, financial, and administrative reports.
The Executive Director of Prestonsburg Tourism will be responsible for the following:
- Supervising and directing daily operations of Prestonsburg Tourism along with work activities of one full-time staff, Sales & Finance Coordinator, along with booking independent contractors for events, tours, conferences, etc.;
- Develop and implement a comprehensive performance-based marketing, promotions, advertising, media, and public relations program for Prestonsburg, Kentucky that increases overall visitation along with local awareness for the tourism industry and its economic and social impact;
- Serve as spokesperson for Prestonsburg Tourism, working closely with all City of Prestonsburg agencies;
- Proper preparation for monthly Tourism Commission and Executive Committee meetings in such a manner that each group has adequate information to make informed decisions;
- Create strategies for increased visitor stays, spending, and economic development/growth through group tour business, leisure travelers, and events;
- Effectively evaluate market research and destination data to determine optimal budgeting, advertising, and programming;
- Plan and coordinate motorcoach tours, conferences, events, media visits, and FAM tours;
- Serving as lead representative to Prestonsburg Tourism Commission, consisting of seven (7) members, coordinating meetings, providing data and reports, and serving as liaison between City Council, City Officials, and the Commission;
- Representing Prestonsburg as staff liaison with Kentucky Travel Industry Association, Kentucky Association of Convention & Visitors Bureau, Kentucky Tourism, Eastern Highlands North, and similar organizations to promote activities and communication;
- Ensure accurate reporting and compliant operation with state departments;
- Overseeing the management of the Prestonsburg Tourism website and social accounts;
- Maintaining a computer list of resources for mailings, contacts and promotional packages; ensuring all materials and mailing are up-to-date for marketing of attractions and events;
- Preparing and administering annual operating budget for Prestonsburg Tourism; monitoring expenditures to ensure compliance with approved budgets; reviews and approves invoices;
- Overseeing preparation and administration of grant applications; conducting research to identify and acquire federal, state, and local funding sources;
- Communicating with employees, volunteers, other departments, City officials, local/regional governments, state agencies, local businesses leaders, local lodging/restaurant establishments, local attractions, community organizations, visitors, local residents, the public, the media, outside agencies, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, resolve problems, or give/receive advice/direction.
- Attend meetings, seminars, conventions, tradeshows, and workshops to enhance tourism knowledge and stay informed of changes within the tourism industry, and network with other similar organizations.
- Develop relationships with regional, national, and international tourism-based publications and writers, tour operators, and travel agents.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in marketing, hospitality and/or tourism, similar field or equivalent amount of training and experience. At least 3 years of progressively responsible management experience in related sales or marketing, with 1-2 years of supervisor experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Position is at times required to work nights, week-ends and holidays to accomplish organizational and department goals. Position requires frequent overnight travel. Valid driver’s license with a good driving record is required. Criminal background check is required.
Compensation
$50,000-$55,000
Excellent benefits include participation in the Kentucky Retirement System, paid-time off, life insurance, medical insurance, company vehicle access, cell phone, educational opportunities, professional dues, and conference expenses.
Start Date: On or around mid-March 2024
Reports To: Prestonsburg Tourism Commission
The recruitment will remain open until filled. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume with references. Applications review will begin February 23, 2024 and will stay open until filled.
Please send resumes and cover letters to jobs@prestonsburgky.org
Prestonsburg Tourism provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.