Job Description - DDA - Director Marketing and Communications

Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

DEFINITION

The Director of Marketing & Communications (DMC) has the primary responsibility for the general marketing of the Downtown Grand Junction Business Improvement District (BID), the promotion of BID-sponsored special events held downtown throughout the year, and both internal and external communications for the BID. The DMC develops marketing strategies that support the downtown business community, expand the economic vitality of the District, and promotes the unique identity of downtown as the center of the community.

The DMC is a primary point of contact for information about downtown Grand Junction for the public, business and property owners located in the BID, local and regional media outlets, and for other agencies and organizations throughout the Grand Valley.

The DMC oversees the day-to-day management and administration of the marketing and promotions budget under the supervision of the Executive Director and in coordination with Partnership administrative staff and special event contractors.

JOB CLASSIFICATION

Exempt, Non-Safety Sensitive.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives direction from the Executive Director of the Downtown Grand Junction.

ORGANIZATION
The Grand Junction Downtown Partnership is comprised of two public agencies - the Grand Junction Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and the Downtown Grand Junction Business Improvement District (BID) – and the Downtown Association (DTA), a 501(c)6 tax-exempt organization that collaborates with the BID to market and promote downtown. The DMC reports to the Executive Director of the Downtown Partnership, and provides primary staff support to the DTA. The DMC position and associated activities are funded by a combination of public monies in the form of BID assessments against downtown properties, and DTA program revenue. The combination of public dollars and tax-exempt revenue requires the highest standard of accountability for program performance and financial management.

PRIMARY DUTIES--The following are examples of primary duties assigned to positions in this classification. Other related duties and responsibilities may be assigned.

1. Develop and implement marketing strategies for downtown Grand Junction; research and analyze market trends that support the growth of downtown businesses; identify and prioritize opportunities to promote businesses and events.

2. Assess the range of marketing approaches including traditional print and broadcast media, social media and web-based marketing techniques, and create specific marketing programs for each.

3. Create and maintain an effective web presence through the Downtown Grand Junction website and the strategic use of social media.

4. Serve as liaison between the DTA and downtown businesses/merchants and actively solicit ideas and feedback for improving marketing and special events; welcome and promote new businesses locating in downtown; maintain BID and DTA membership databases; promote DTA membership; maintain regular and timely communications with DTA and BID members concerning marketing and promotional activities and opportunities.

5. Establish and maintain effective relationships with the City of Grand Junction, in particular the Visitors & Convention Bureau and the Parks & Recreation Department, along with other agencies, to promote the goals of the BID and to resolve issues related to the commercial vitality of the downtown area.

6. Oversee details of downtown events and cultural activities; coordinate marketing and promotions activities with Partnership staff, relevant City departments, and service contractors; evaluate success of events in meeting the goals of the BID; cultivate and maintain sponsorship relations for special events; research and pursue grant funding in support of BID activities.

7. Serve as primary media contact for BID and event related topics; write and distribute press releases; write and proofread advertising copy; develop and produce additional materials including newsletters, flyers, posters, brochures, and promotional announcements as needed; supervise and direct contract services for writing, design, video production, photography, and printing functions.

8. Assist in budgeting and reporting functions, and organizational planning and goal setting.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:
The dynamics of downtown communities and their economic challenges
Characteristics, operations, services and activities of downtown Grand Junction
Market research and analysis
Special event management and promotion
Small business operations, retail sales and merchandising
Conventional and web-based marketing, public relations, and social media
Graphic design and layout

Core Competencies & Abilities:
Work independently and make sound confident decisions
Excellent interpersonal skills in dealing with a broad range of people and situations
Consensus building among groups with a wide range of interests and perspectives
Excellent time management skills with the ability to meet critical deadlines, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and multi-task with interruptions
Superior written and verbal communication skills; ability to develop concise comprehensive and understandable promotional materials, to write and edit written material for publication, and to efficiently handle inquiries from the general public and the media
Computer proficiency in the modern office environment
Excellent financial record keeping, budget administration and reporting skills

EXPERIENCE & TRAINING
Experience:
Minimum of three years of increasingly responsible marketing, communications or public relations experience.

Training:
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university with major course work in marketing, mass communications, public relations, business, economic development, or related field.

License or Certificates:
Possession of, or ability to obtain a valid driver’s license.

Environmental Conditions:
Office and downtown field environment; travel between sites; extensive public contact.

Physical Conditions:
Activities may require walking, standing, or sitting for prolonged periods, both indoors and outdoors in variable weather; moderate lifting; use of computer and office equipment; operation of a motor vehicle; extensive public speaking and contact.