Job Opportunity for Explore Ridgeland

Position: Ridgeland Tourism Commission (Explore Ridgeland) President/CEO

Reports to Six Member Board of Commissioners: 2 Lodging/ 2 Restaurant/ 2 At Large Representatives

The President/CEO is responsible for the success of the organization and its growth of the local tourism industry. Effective planning, development and implementation of marketing strategies, development strategies, creative initiatives, personnel management, funding, and budgetary management are critical. But success lies in having and implementing a vision for growth for Ridgeland within the realm of tourism while being an expert in destination marketing, management, and stewardship.  The President/CEO must develop, present, and ensure that the philosophy and culture of the organization is maintained and nourished consistently and constantly.

Explore Ridgeland is the official destination organization for the City of Ridgeland located in Madison County in central Mississippi, within Renaissance at Colony Park. Our beautiful landscape lies on the Natchez Trace Parkway which fully runs east to west of the 43-acre Barnett Reservoir with 15 miles of historic trails and cycling paths.  Known not only as central Mississippi’s dining and shopping playground, but also the Steakhouse Capitol of Mississippi, Mississippi’s Healthiest Hometown, a Certified Bronze League of American Bicyclists destination, and home to Mississippi’s only Apple Store, Bill Waller Craft Center, and Topgolf Attraction. This award-winning hometown has just under 25,000 residents in a growing sports and entertainment market with 16 hotels, 150 restaurants among many chef owned, and a local culinary arts community college.

The President/CEO is responsible for the external and internal presentation of the Ridgeland Tourism Commission. This includes actively participating in and directing the efforts of Explore Ridgeland, its staff, volunteers as well as spearheading the engagement of the local tourism industry. The President/CEO must excel at coordinating strategies and tactical initiatives with private enterprise, governmental stakeholders, and other organizations useful and necessary for success. The CEO will collaborate with local, regional, and tourism related organizations to guide, influence, and support activities that facilitate quality of life, quality of experience, and economic growth in Ridgeland.

The President/CEO will review, measure, and assess existing initiatives and activities and will develop programs that leverage general area and tourism industry strengths while integrating new approaches and strategies. This position requires constant innovation in a rapidly changing environment. Because of this, the position requires vigilant management and a deep understanding of the national and statewide tourism industry. Creativity, innovation, industry knowledge and the ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic, and collaborative environment are required for success in this position.

The President/CEO will prepare and oversee an annual budget, report directly to a six-person, Board of Commissioners, and lead a staff of 7-8 FT and 1 or more PT employees. This position requires exemplary leadership skills in ethical government practices, adherence to Commission rules, policies, and procedures. The organization is funded by a Mississippi Senate Bill tax appropriation for a 1% tax on Ridgeland hotels and restaurants.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Responsible for creating with staff, implementing, and measuring the success of:

Ø  Marketing, advertising, communications, and public relations activities that enhance and grow Ridgeland’s position in the tourism marketplace and to the public.

Ø  On-going brand development that effectively identifies target audiences and generates trackable return on investment.

Ø  Tourism attraction marketing to increase attendance and visitor draw to Ridgeland.

Ø  Financial inputs and the resulting outcomes into all initiatives.

• Ensure consistent communication of desired image and position to all constituencies, both internal and external.

• Play a lead role in articulating and communicating the brand identity of the Ridgeland Tourism Commission and its representation of the Ridgeland area.

• Responsible for overall direction, design, production, funding, budgeting, and operations of Explore Ridgeland/Ridgeland Tourism Commission.

• Oversee Ridgeland Tourism Commission staff with a focus on growing talent and skill sets that dynamically push Ridgeland’s tourism product.

• Act as the official spokesperson for Explore Ridgeland/Ridgeland Tourism Commission with media, governmental bodies, interest groups and industry organizations.

• Gather, maintain, and interpret industry and market data relevant to the destination and attractions, and integrate said research into long-range plans. Plan and build meaningful metrics into all programs, while monitoring trends and leading staff to inculcate target market requirements into ongoing programs.

• Be an active member of relevant tourism industry organizations including the MS Tourism Association, Visit Mississippi, and Destinations International.

• As needed, consult outside expertise in matters requiring legal, financial, or other professional services.

Planning and Budgeting

• Responsible for the creation of a viable and motivational mission. Establish goals and financial objectives combined with evaluation systems that provide data to determine success. Report the same to the Board.

• Prepare and track budgets, new revenue sources, results generated, and other data as needed.

• Work with VP Finance to present Annual Audits to Ridgeland Tourism Board of Commissioners.

• Develop, present, and seek approval of annual budget from Ridgeland Tourism Commission.

• Create and implement short- and long-term organizational goals and objectives for Ridgeland Tourism Commission.

• Develop, implement, and monitor systems and procedures necessary for the smooth operation of Ridgeland Visitors Center, as well as Ridgeland Tourism Commission.

Organizational Strategy

• Work with Board Members, elected officials, state and community leaders, senior staff, and others to:

Ø  Develop and maintain a strategic perspective based on marketplace and industry needs and satisfaction, in organizational direction, program and services, and decision-making; and,

Ø  Ensure the overall health and vitality of the organization.

 • Ensure that Explore Ridgeland’s philosophy, mission and vision are pertinent and practiced.

Managing

 • Recruit, train, appraise, supervise, support, develop, promote, and guide qualified personnel.

• Maintain a climate that attracts, retains, and motivates top quality personnel.

• Effectively empower staff so they can act on behalf of the organization by:

Ø  Transmitting the organization’s values, vision, and direction.

Ø  Engaging people in the meaning of Explore Ridgeland.

Ø  Respecting and using the skills, expertise, experience, and insights of staff members.

Ø  Providing direction and resources, removing barriers, and helping develop people's skills. articulating expectations and clarifying roles and relationships.

Ø  Helping people transform information into knowledge and learning.

Ø  Encouraging people to question organizational assumptions and ask strategic questions, ensuring quality decision-making.

Ø  Anticipating conflicts and facilitating resolution.

Ø  Leading by example with the highest standards of practice, ethics, and behavior.

Ø  Engaging people in process as well as tasks.

Ø  Encouraging people to use their power, practice their authority, and accept their responsibility.

Ø  Modeling behavior and coaching people to success.

Board Relations

• Facilitate the recruitment and retention of the RTC Board of Commissioners.

• Oversee preparation for Board and Committee meetings, staff reports, and revenue reports.

• Oversee RTC’s legal representation and report to Board of Commissioners as needed.

• Advise the Chairman of the Board and Executive Officers of matters of concern in between Board meetings.

TOP PRIORITIES

• Implement the Ridgeland Tourism Commission’s new 5-Year Strategic Plan.

• Continue advocacy and stakeholder support for the expansion of the Freedom Ridge Sports Complex and Tax Referendum.

• Provide leadership and strong representation with the MS Tourism Association, Destinations International, and other tourism industry organizations.

• Become proficient in the Federal Grant Guidelines reporting procedures and requirements.

• Oversee relationships with all primary marketing vendors, Agency of Record, and Creative Agency.

ONGOING FOCUS

1. Meet with, build strong relationships and establish trust with staff, community leaders, stakeholders, and residents.

2. Continue execution of the current marketing plan, destination business plan, and brand positioning strategies.

3. Perform weekly and monthly financial responsibilities, such as budget and payroll oversight, check signing, bank reviews of all accounts, and budget status.

4. Oversee the ARPA Federal Grant administration and operation for Ridgeland Tourism through 2026 with accurate and time sensitive reporting.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Education and Work Experience

Bachelor’s degree in economic development, business administration, tourism and hospitality management, sports management, marketing, communication or a related field, and a minimum of eight (8) years of experience in a senior role in the tourism, economic development, hospitality, or attractions industry and minimum of five (5) years executive level management experience.  A thorough knowledge of travel and tourism development and marketing.  We are seeking an industry professional who is passionate about Mississippi and Ridgeland, and who wants to make his or her mark in our tourism and hospitality industry.

The ideal candidate will be visionary, capable of exciting others about that vision in large forums and one-on-one settings. The successful candidate will be a recognized industry leader who can serve as a catalyst, innovator, resource, and mentor for the Ridgeland area’s tourism industry. In addition, the ideal candidate will be a resource to the broader industry in Mississippi and will have a reputation for exceptional results. The position requires travel as needed, superior communication skills and the ability to interact within political, social, and corporate environments.

The successful candidate will be a passionate self-starter, self-motivated and able to manage many overlapping details. The successful candidate will be creative, detail oriented, knowledgeable, and passionate about the tourism industry in the United States, Southeastern Region of the U.S., Mississippi and, of course, the Ridgeland area.

Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate others in a flexible and constantly changing environment, are required. Must be able to work collaboratively and constructively with a wide range of co-workers, governmental leaders, community leaders and industry partners, while demonstrating a positive attitude and cooperation with all. The ideal candidate will be willing to relocate to the greater Ridgeland area to be recognized as the leader of tourism locally. Media requests can occur at any time for any reason as well as impromptu meetings and in person visits with city officials or legislative leaders.

Ideal Skills

• Entrepreneurial spirit; business owner perspective, with strong leadership skills and vision.

• Aggressive in pursuing new business opportunities and the ability to go above and beyond the commonly accepted standards.

• Ability to bring industry experience and contacts to the position.

• Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally; ability to motivate people.

• Ability to develop and maintain strong relationships at all levels including all stakeholders.

• Ability to work with government agencies and other key stakeholders as part of a collaborative partnership in meeting organizational mission and performance objectives.

• An individual with broad business vision and the ability to lead an organization in developing and executing a business plan.

• Demonstrated ability to build consensus with multiple stakeholder groups is a must.

• Excellent public presentation and interaction skills.

• Exceptional communication skills with ability to understand and communicate a vision of the “big picture”.

• Outstanding interpersonal and presentation skills.

• Skill in developing and executing against business plans.

• Active and engaged within the community.

• Maintains a high level of interest, enthusiasm, and personal performance. Helps others achieve their personal performance standards.

• Financially astute.

• Capable with technology and trends as it relates to the industry.

Key Characteristics  

• Strong Leader                                                • Excellent Communicator                           • Strategic Thinker

• Good Listener                                               • Open & Honest                                            • Politically Astute

• Diplomatic & Influential                             • Likable & Approachable                             • Collaborative

• Effective Public Speaker                            • Relationship Builder                                   • Transparent

• Highly Ethical                                                  • Fiscally Responsible                                     • Credible & Reliable

• Innovative & Creative                                 • Objective & Tactful                                      • Humble & Authentic

Mandatory Licensure or Requirements

• Must retain a valid Driver’s License and meet the eligibility requirements to drive a personal vehicle. Must be able to travel by airplane, train, bus, and motor vehicle at any time.

• Tourism and hospitality certifications are ideal. 

• Must successfully pass background check including financial history.

Interested candidates should submit a letter of interest, resume, and references to Tina@exploreridgeland.com no later than April 14, 2025.  If submitting hard copies, please send to: Tina Nichols, Human Resources Coordinator, Ridgeland Tourism Commission, 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 3002, Ridgeland, MS 39157. 

Salary Commensurate with Experience. The Ridgeland Tourism Commission is a member of the Public Employees Retirement System and provides paid comprehensive medical and dental insurance with additional options. The Explore Ridgeland Visitors Center and office are located at 1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Suite 3002 at Renaissance.

Recruitment Dates: March 17- April 14, 2025

Position Begins By: June 6, 2025