Director of Strategic Communications

Galveston Island Park Board of Trustees•Galveston, TX

4d•$125,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Galveston Park Board and Visit Galveston in Galveston, TX is actively seeking a driven, full-time Director of Strategic Communications to direct and oversee all communications activities, including tourism media relations, governance, and internal communications. This role involves simultaneously managing the tourism-focused public relations for Visit Galveston, the community and governmental affairs-focused public relations for its parent organization, the Galveston Park Board of Trustees, and internal employee communications. The ideal candidate is familiar with Galveston Island and the surrounding area and passionate about the tourism industry.

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 including press materials, creative collateral, and digital channels.
Strong editing skills, with a comprehensive knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, and 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 comfort working with the Park Board CEO and Visit Galveston Executive Director.
Proven ability to act as a strategic advisor.
Knowledge of the local area, hospitality industry, media, and news-gathering processes.
Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office, MAC, and email.
Basic knowledge of HTML, Adobe Dreamweaver, and WordPress.
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 (CTA training provided upon hire).

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 to generate high-profile media exposure for Galveston Island and the organization's business units.
Supply journalists and the media with quotes, photos, and other crucial information.
Collaborate with the marketing team to formulate collateral, sales promotion pieces, brochures, advertising, annual marketing plans, online content, blogs, and key marketing projects.
Organize campaigns to advertise the evolving branding and messaging of the organization, leveraging familiarity with the Island and surrounding areas.
Work with external organizations to expand 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 as needed.
Take initiative and lead 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 the department remains on task for established goals.
Oversee professional development opportunities for staff.
Motivate and educate the 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 content to evangelize the Galveston mission, including working with stakeholders across multiple departments.
Facilitate website updates, e-newsletters, and blog posts using knowledge of HTML, Adobe Dreamweaver, and WordPress.
Utilize AI tools for content creation, communications, and research.