Destination Development Specialist

Destination Development Specialist

Application online at: https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/4296490143/
 

Team Scope

The Destination Development Specialist supports Discover Monroe-West Monroe’s mission by cultivating and strengthening relationships with hotels, restaurants, attractions, and other tourism partners. This role provides administrative and event support, coordinates hospitality training, assists with visitor services, and helps expand local business engagement opportunities. The Destination Development Specialist collaborates with the Director of Operations and the executive team on special projects and strategic initiatives, while also serving as an essential connection between the bureau and the local hospitality community.

Project Management

• Lead the planning, execution, monitoring, and completion of destination development projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within scope.
• Develop detailed project charters, scopes of work, budgets, and timelines for assigned initiatives.
• Track progress using project management tools, prepare regular updates, and report outcomes to leadership as needed.
• Conduct risk assessments, identify challenges, and implement solutions to ensure smooth project delivery.

Destination Development

• Collaborate with city, parish, and state partners to identify and advance tourism-related infrastructure, beautification, and placemaking projects.
• Support research and feasibility studies for new attractions, public space enhancements, and hospitality infrastructure improvements.
• Facilitate community engagement sessions to gather input and ensure projects reflect local needs and visitor expectations.
• Identify opportunities for grant funding, public-private partnerships, and external investments to support destination growth.

Partnership & Business Development

• Build and maintain strong relationships with hotels, short-term rentals, restaurants, and attractions across Ouachita Parish.
• Coordinate hospitality training programs with partners and third-party providers.
• Research and analyze local events; collect and report findings to the President/CEO.
• Maintain current knowledge of area attractions, accommodations, and visitor services, act as a liaison for partners.

Event & Program Support

• Assist with special events, including materials preparation (nametags, gifts, welcome services, etc.).
• Support visitor welcome booth operations and partner with local businesses for visitor experience initiatives.
• Assist with grant applications, documentation, and reporting.
• Provide back-up support for Board of Directors and committee meetings, including scheduling and minute-taking.

Administrative & Office Support

• Receive and document office purchases and deliveries.
• Provide clerical support and assist with general office operations as needed.
• Collaborate on organizational projects and other duties as assigned by the President/CEO or executive team.

Qualifications

Education/ Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or minimum of 3 years’ experience in office administration, hospitality, or related field.
• At least 2 years of clerical or administrative experience.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking ability.
• Customer service oriented with strong interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. and perform a full range of physical activities, including standing, walking, sitting, reaching, and traveling by car or plane.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Work Environment

• Typical office setting with flexible weekday hours between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. (core hours 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.).
• Occasional extended hours, evenings, and weekends based on event needs.
• Periodic exposure to outdoor elements, varied conditions, or loud environments during events.