The Director, Corporate Communications is responsible for directing all external communications and developing and leading a comprehensive local and business tourism strategic communications program that enhances and promotes Choose Chicago. This position aligns with the work and partnerships which include the City of Chicago, the Mayor’s Office, community stakeholders, local media, government relations, and key management.
The ideal candidate will serve as a spokesperson for Choose Chicago, leading key local and business media relationships and ensuring strong earned and owned media coverage. Identifies local and business communication needs and directs the tailoring of communications, public relations, media initiatives, and messaging at targeted internal and external audiences.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Manage day-to-day internal and external local and business communications pertaining to the organization, its mission, leaders and business.
Ensure local and business communication strategy is consistent and reflects the organization’s strategic vision.
Develop strategies and tactics designed to educate and build relationships with the public, the media and key opinion leaders to strengthen the organization’s role and reputation as a leader and authoritative voice in the travel and tourism industry, and in the hospitality industry of Chicago.
Work closely with executive leadership, strategic partners and stakeholders to determine key opportunities to amplify the positive news from Choose Chicago and our industry.
Develop and manage communication and marketing deliverables for executive leadership that support brand and marketing efforts, EDI and neighborhood initiatives including press releases, speeches, talking points, e-newsletters, staff memos, media reports, event recaps, partnership newsletters, executive communications, etc. in an organized and thoughtful manner that adheres to a productive timeline.
Maintain a disciplined focus on core messages and brand differentiators, identify newsworthy events and provide strategic counsel and support in the ongoing development of Choose Chicago’s brand credibility among defined key audiences.
Develops and monitor the corporate communications budget.
Write reports for distribution to selected executives, board members and with other stakeholders.
Develops, cultivates, and maintains strong relationships with local and business tourism media contacts and outlets to maximize current and future exposure.
Manages third-party agency partners, as needed, to facilitate special projects and ongoing communication initiatives.
Develops and work on PR as needed in collaboration with the Marketing Sales Manager campaigns for select trade show clients in partnership with their communications teams, including new booking announcements.
Plans and coordination the Annual Meeting of Partnership
Lead project manager in all aspects of developing and distributing Choose Chicago Annual Report.
Accompany CEO and other selected executives to various events to coordinate local media activities; Oversee development of presentation materials, speeches and key message development for appearances.
Acts as a spokesperson for the organization and participate in various meetings, discussions, media events, etc.
Works with the CEO to identify opportunities for building awareness and improving the organization’s reputation among key audiences, while being prepared to respond to and manage crises.
Support organization’s leadership social media presence to support organizational priorities.
Serves as main liaison to Mayor and Governor Press offices.
Serves as a liaison with community and industry partners, including World Business Chicago, Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, Illinois Office of Tourism, Magnificent Mile Association, DCASE, Illinois Restaurant Association, Chicago Loop Alliance, US Travel Association, PCMA and other relevant partners.
Monitors and analyzes news coverage of the organization as well as industry news.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications / Competency
Bachelor degree, preferably in Corporate Communications or Public Relations with equivalent practical experience.
Requires aminimum of six (6) to ten (10) years of progressive experience in corporate communications, public affairs or public relations agency work.
Requires a minimum of two (2) years as a public facing on-camera brand spokesperson.
Excellent oral, written and presentation skills. Must be able to speak publicly and give presentations to organizations, board of directors and partner groups.
Ability to represent the organization in a professional manner while interfacing with internal and external clients.
Ability to think creatively, strategically and work within budget.
A strong team orientation is critical based on the collaborative culture of Choose Chicago and the visitor industry.
Ability to illustrate a results-focused approach and commitment to going the extra mile for key stakeholders, including adapting quickly to situations and managing demands.
Energetic, self-starter and resourceful problem solver - keeps projects on timeline.
Ability to represent Choose Chicago in a professional manner while interfacing with internal and external clients
Strong working knowledge of MS Office products including Power Point.
Excellent time management ability to simultaneously manage multiple projects on schedule and on budget.
Physical Requirements /Environment Conditions
Ability to adjust to various physical and environmental conditions as the position may require, including computer work, travel, sitting or standing for long periods, etc.
Ability to travel by ground transportation (includes personal and public transportation) as required in performing work.
Must provide proof of vaccination status.
Requires the ability to work extended (long hours) during a normal work week.
Must be able to work nights, weekends, and holidays as necessary and required. Work is primarily performed in a normal office environment. Since work is sometimes performed outdoors in varying weather conditions, must be able to tolerate extreme temperatures or inclement weather.
TO APPLY: This position offers a competitive salary and benefits package. Qualified candidates should submit resume and include salary requirements to [email protected]:
Choose Chicago® is the official sales and marketing organization responsible for promoting McCormick Place Convention City and Chicago, partnering with the Mayor's office, as a global visitor destination to business and leisure travelers.
