Director of Strategic Communications

Galveston Island Park Board of Trustees•Galveston, TX

1d•$125,000•Onsite

About The Position

Galveston Park Board and Visit Galveston in Galveston, TX is actively seeking a driven full-time Director of Communications to direct and oversee the overall communications activity (including tourism media relations, governance, and internal communications). This position involves simultaneously directing the tourism-focused public relations efforts of Visit Galveston, the community and governmental affairs-focused public relations efforts of its parent organization, the Galveston Park Board of Trustees, and internal employee communications. This public relations position earns a competitive salary of $125,000, depending on skills and experience. We provide exceptional benefits and perks, including strong health, dental, and vision plans, plus hospitalization, STD, and LTD policies fully paid for by the employer, and a 401(k) plan with a 5% employer match on a 3% employee contribution.

Requirements

Four-year college degree in public relations, communications, journalism, and/or marketing-related field, or equivalent related experience
Seven or more years of public relations experience, preferably in a related field such as travel, hospitality, or tourism
Previous experience in government-focused public relations or government affairs
Demonstrated proficiency in developing and implementing successful strategic communications/PR plans
Strong writing skills for a variety of communication vehicles that include press materials, creative collateral, digital channels, and more
Strong editing skills, with a comprehensive knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, and especially AP style
Ability to pitch media daily
Ability to collaborate with a small staff
Prior management responsibilities for an organization's publicity program and staff
Prior work with high-level executive teams and comfortable working with the Park Board CEO and Visit Galveston Executive Director
Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office, MAC, and email
Basic knowledge of HTML, Adobe Dreamweaver, and WordPress to facilitate website updates, e-newsletters, and blog
Strong understanding of AI tools, including appropriate use cases for AI-driven content, communications, and research
Ability to multitask, adhere to deadlines, and work independently
Professional demeanor and a strong work ethic
Professional Certification or Affiliation within the Public Relations field
Must hold a current and valid Class C Driver's License
Certified Tourism Ambassador (CTA) certification or ability to become certified
Strong verbal and written communication as well as interpersonal skills
Natural-born leader
Expert at navigating technology, including Microsoft Office, MAC, email, HTML, Adobe Dreamweaver, and WordPress
Ability to balance and prioritize multiple tasks
Independent worker who never misses deadlines

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with Galveston Island and the surrounding area
Passion for the tourism industry
Established contacts with local and national press and media representatives
International press contacts

Responsibilities

Develop effective, targeted media pitches and editorial submissions that garner high-profile media exposure for Galveston Island and each of the organization's business units.
Supply quotes, photos, and other crucial information to journalists and the media.
Working closely with the marketing team, help formulate collateral, sales promotion pieces, brochures, advertising, annual marketing plans, online content, blogs, and key marketing projects.
Organize campaigns that help advertise the evolving branding and messaging of our organization.
Effectively work with external organizations to expand our reach and perceptions of Galveston.
Collaborate with the digital marketing team to create b-roll footage, YouTube videos, event photography, video pods, and more to increase exposure.
Travel in or out of the local area and work outside.
Be a leader and take the initiative on all of these projects.
Work with the Senior Director of Marketing, Park Board CEO, and the Executive Director to set and attain PR goals for each fiscal year.
Ensure your department remains on task for established goals.
Oversee professional development opportunities for staff.
Motivate and educate your team.
Act as a strategic advisor, anticipating and providing guidance on legislative agendas, government affairs, and emerging local issues to the Park Board CEO and Visit Galveston Executive Director.
Rally internal resources and data to create the content required to evangelize the Galveston mission, including working with stakeholders across multiple departments.