Program Manager Tourism Development

Position to be filled by: March 31, 2025

Company: Ocilla Irwin County Industrial Development Authority

Location: Ocilla, Georgia

Category: Development Authority

Position Type: Full-Time

Education Requirement: Bachelor's

Experience Requirement: 1-2 years

Salary: Depends on Experience

How to Apply: Contact Susan Driscoll at susan@mcwhorterdriscoll.com

Job Description & Details:

Job Title: Marketing Program Manager – Irwin Instead Tourism Campaign Development
Location: Irwin County, Georgia
Position Type: Full-Time, Entry-Level

Job Description:
The Ocilla Irwin Industrial Development Authority is seeking a motivated and organized Marketing Program Manager to spearhead a community tourism marketing campaign. This entry-level role is critical in developing, launching, and promoting a tourism program that showcases the rich, rural experiences Irwin County has to offer. The program will focus on unique aspects of country life, outdoor recreational activities (such as hunting and fishing), local history, local restaurants, retail shops, and community farm and other relevant tours. The ideal candidate is proactive, creative, and has strong communication and organizational skills.

Responsibilities:
• Campaign Development and Execution:
o Work with the Economic Development Consultant to create the product for the marketing campaign “Irwin Instead” which was created by Valdosta State promoting the area’s tourism offerings.
o Design, develop, and manage marketing materials for products including farm tours, local dining, retail options, outdoor entertainment, and relaxation experiences.
o Research and implement best practices for tourism promotion in rural, low-income areas to ensure effective outreach.
• Community and Business Engagement: o Educate community members about the tourism program and encourage participation from local businesses, farms, restaurants, retailers, and current and future outdoor entertainment providers.
o Build and maintain relationships with local entities to foster collaboration and expand tourism product offerings.
o Organize and lead informational sessions and workshops to ensure broad community understanding and involvement.
• Marketing and Promotion: 
o Oversee promotional activities within Irwin County and extend efforts to attract outside visitors.
o Develop social media and online content, press releases, and other communication tools to promote the tourism campaign.
o Plan and participate in local events to raise awareness of tourism opportunities.
• Continuous Improvement: 
o Monitor the program’s success and gather feedback to make ongoing adjustments to attract more visitors.
o Identify and implement additional tourism offerings and refine the existing campaign to meet evolving community needs.
o Leverage data and visitor feedback to analyze and improve marketing strategies.

Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Communications, Tourism, or a related field (preferred, but not required)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to inspire and engage diverse audiences
• Organizational skills with an attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects
• Proactive, critical thinker with problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to new challenges
• Familiarity with rural community dynamics and the ability to work collaboratively within a close-knit community setting
• Experience with social media, online marketing, and/or community outreach (preferred)

Benefits:
• Opportunity to work directly with local businesses, farms, and community members to develop a high-impact tourism program
• Gain hands-on experience in economic development and rural tourism
• Contribute to the growth and revitalization of a rural area through innovative tourism initiatives
• Potential to grow into lead economic development role for the community

Compensation: $40,000 to $60,000 depending on experience

To Apply: Submit a resume and a cover letter explaining your interest in promoting tourism and community development in Irwin County to Susan Driscoll at susan@mcwhorterdriscoll.com

This role is ideal for a motivated individual with a passion for rural development and community engagement who wants to make a tangible difference.