Vice President of Marketing & Communications

Position Summary Full-time Regular, Exempt The Vice President of Marketing Communications provides executive leadership and strategic direction for all efforts that advance Monterey County’s destination brand and the managed growth of its tourism economy. This role drives long-term brand strategy, aligns all marketing outputs with organizational and CEO priorities, and ensures effective stakeholder and community engagement. The VP leads and inspires a high-performing team; oversees integrated, multichannel programs across domestic leisure, group/conference/travel trade, luxury, and international markets; manages the MarComm budget and agency partnerships; and ensures all marketing decisions are grounded in research, performance data, and ROI analysis. The VP is accountable for delivering impactful, measurable results that strengthen the destination’s competitiveness and drive economic vitality for Monterey County. The role also represents the organization with professionalism, clarity, and strong executive presence. Essential Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Alignment • Provides executive leadership to the Marketing & Communications team ensuring alignment with the CEO’s vision, Board priorities, and organizational strategy. • Prioritizes and effectively manages resources and workforce planning to maximize impact. • Builds and develops a high-performing team with clear expectations and accountability. • Ensures punctuality and adherence to all organizational policies and procedures. • Integrated Marketing, Brand & Communications • Leads data-driven, integrated marketing strategies with measurable KPIs across key travel segments. • Strengthens Monterey County’s position in sustainable and responsible travel through messaging, practices and partnerships. • Ensures consistent brand architecture, storytelling, and messaging across all channels and partner touchpoints. • Directs organizational communications, earned media, and media relations; leads crisis communications as needed. • Represents See Monterey publicly and leads development of the Annual Report, Business Plan, Stakeholder Updates, and strategic reports, Budget, Research & Program Development • Manages the MarComm budget and agency partnerships with a focus on ROI and strategic investment; for Leisure, Group, Luxury and International segments • Oversees research, data analysis, and performance measurement • Drives development and promotion of destination events that strengthen year-round demand. • Contributes to cross-departmental strategy, models See Monterey’s mission and values and ensures adherence to organizational policies. • Performs other duties as assigned. Digital Strategy & Technology Direction • Leads digital transformation efforts including website evolution, AI integration, marketing automation, data personalization, and technology adoption aligned with industry best practices. • Ensures robust use of analytics, research, and insights to guide decision making and measure program effectiveness. Agency, Partnership & Budget Oversight • Manages relationships with external agencies to ensure ROI and alignment with destination goals. • Oversees the annual marketing budget with full financial management responsibility, ensuring smart, strategic allocation of resources. • Lead the Marketing Committee and engages regularly with hotels, attractions, jurisdiction partners, and community stakeholders. • Build and nurture strategic partnerships such as Visit California, Cal Travel and others that advance destination awareness and economic impact. • Attends Board and committee meetings and provides expert insight, updates, and strategic recommendations. Continuous Improvement • Champions innovation, process improvement, and a culture of learning within the Marketing Communications department. • Ensures adherence to organizational policies, professional standards, and See Monterey values. Core Competencies • Strategic thinking with the ability to translate CEO vision into actionable, measurable plans • Executive leadership and experience to develop high-performing teams • Strong judgment, decisiveness, and accountability in personnel and resource decisions • Excellence in communication, presentation skills, and stakeholder engagement • Expertise in integrated destination marketing, brand management, and multi-channel strategy • Strong understanding of tourism industry trends and DMO best practices • High proficiency in digital marketing, analytics, and modern marketing technologies • Adaptability, innovation mindset, and collaborative approach Requirements Education and Experience • 12–15+ years of progressive experience in marketing communications, including a minimum of 3-5 years in a VP role (or equivalent) • Experience within a Destination Marketing Organization (DMO), tourism board, or major hospitality/tourism brand is preferred • Proven record of developing and leading significant marketing strategies, brand campaigns, and communications programs • Demonstrated experience in digital transformation, marketing innovation, research-driven strategy, and complex stakeholder environments • Bachelor’s degree required; master's degree preferred in Marketing, Communications, Business, or related field • Experience presenting to Boards, public bodies, or government stakeholders preferred Job Requirements • Valid work authorization for the United States • For positions requiring driving as an essential job function, candidates must possess a valid driver's license, insurance, and an acceptable motor vehicle record. Alternative transportation may be considered if it meets comparable requirements. Compensation This position is based in Monterey, California and requires an on-site presence. See Monterey offers competitive compensation with an estimated salary for this position of $175,000- $200,000 plus 10% base salary bonus potential. The final pay will depend on factors such as role scope, experience, achievements, internal equity, budget, and Fair Market Value. The listed range reflects a good-faith estimate of base pay at the time of posting and may be adjusted in the future. What We Offer: · Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, FSA and life insurance · 401(k) retirement savings plan with immediate match and vesting · Paid Personal Time Off (PTO), Paid Holiday’s and Sick Pay benefits · $1k annual wellness reimbursement · Opportunity to work with a dynamic and passionate team · Flexible work schedule, including hybrid work options · Professional development and growth opportunities · A chance to make a real impact on the tourism economy of Monterey County Our Culture: We value a positive and inclusive work culture, and we're committed to ensuring that all team members feel welcome and have an equal opportunity to connect, belong, and grow. We encourage team members to contribute to the organization and the hospitality industry, to advance their skill sets, and to be comfortable and confident as their authentic selves. Apply tot his job