Job Description

Job Description

The Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) is seeking a Director of Communications to lead and oversee all communications strategies and initiatives to promote Virginia as a premier travel destination. This director-level role is responsible for developing and executing VTCs high impact earned media strategy, crafting and disseminating compelling narratives that highlight Virginias diverse tourism offerings, and overseeing media relations, including cultivation and management of VTCs relationship with the media.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute effective communications strategies that align with VTCs goals and objectives, and will influence perceptions about the Commonwealth as a premier travel destination
• Create and manage an annual communications plan, including media outreach, public relations, and public affairs strategy
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with local, regional, state, and national media
• Proactively pitch stories to media and manage media inquiries
• Serve as VTCs media contact and spokesperson
• Manage and monitor press interviews with key leadership
• Oversee the planning of press visits and media familiarization tours
• Write and/or edit PR materials as needed, included but not limited to talking points, accolades, press releases, media profile sheets, etc.
• Plan/oversee Virginia-based media events as necessary, such as press conferences, media lunches, etc.
• Work with VTC executive team to coordinate the execution of press announcements with the Governors Office, as well as other public affairs strategies and communication
• Implement crisis communication strategies when needed to manage and mitigate potential issues
• Act as lead for all communications efforts in crisis situations, coordinating responses and managing communications across channels to protect VTCs brand reputation
• Provide communication support and training to VTC staff as needed
• Track media interactions and report on earned media coverage
• Collaborate with tourism partners, industry stakeholders, and government agencies to promote Virginia tourism
• Represent VTC at industry conferences, meetings, and events
• Coordinate with VTCs Procurement department for invoicing and contracts

Skills:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives and manage media relations
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously
• Strong editing and proofreading skills with impeccable attention to detail
• Experience in crisis communication and issues management
• Experience with usage of media database management tools such as Cision or Muck Rack preferred
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships, both internally and externally
• Ability to think both creatively and strategically
• Strong collaborator, working well in a team environment while also able to function as an individual leader with self-direction and accountability
• Strong time management skills, deadline-oriented and efficient

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years experience in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or a related field; at least 5 years experience in the tourism or public affairs sector preferred
• Proven track record of developing and executing successful communication strategies and campaigns
• Knowledge and understanding of Virginia state government processes preferred

Being authorized to work in the U.S. is a precondition of employment. VEDP uses the E-Verify system and does not provide sponsorship.

All candidates must apply through our website A valid Virginia drivers license is required. Salary Minimum: $85,000. Application deadline: November 13, 2024.

VTC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or against otherwise qualified individuals with disabi lities. It is VEDPs intent that its employment and personnel policies and practices conform to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Applicants requiring more information or requiring assistance may contact VTC Human Resources at 1-804-545-5634 or vtchr@VEDP.org . TDD 1-800-828-1120.

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