What are the responsibilities and job description for the President & CEO position at Experience Ruston?
POSITION SUMMARY
The President & CEO serves as the chief executive officer of the Ruston Lincoln Convention & Visitors Bureau (Experience Ruston) and is responsible for the overall leadership, administration, sales, marketing, and operational performance of the organization. This role develops and supervises strategic plans to promote Ruston & Lincoln Parish as a convention and visitor destination at the local, state, regional, and national levels. This position strives to stimulate the local economy by bringing in tourists through leisure travel, sports, and groups. The President & CEO also serves as advisor to the Board of Directors and works closely with community partners to advance the mission of Experience Ruston.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Executive Leadership and Administration
- Provide overall leadership and direction for Experience Ruston, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission, strategic goals, and Board priorities.
- Serve as primary liaison to the CVB Board of Directors, providing guidance, recommendations, reporting, and strategic counsel.
- Oversee daily operations, policies, financial management, and personnel administration.
- Lead, supervise, and support department directors and staff, fostering a collaborative, high-performing team culture.
- Prepare and manage the annual operating budget and ensure responsible stewardship of public funds.
- Represent the organization in professional, civic, and industry settings, committees, and boards
Destination Development
- Oversee destination marketing, sales and visitor services initiatives, ensuring strong performance in group travel, sports tourism, and leisure markets.
- Provide executive leadership for long-range destination development, guiding the strategic vision for Ruston & Lincoln Parish as a competitive and sustainable visitor destination.
- Lead development and implementation of the organization’s destination strategic plan in collaboration with the Board of Directors, staff leadership, and community stakeholders.
- Identify emerging tourism, economic development, and placemaking opportunities that enhance visitor experience while supporting quality of life for residents.
- Build strong partnerships with Ruston & Lincoln Parish’s local government, universities, hospitality partners, workforce entities, and private sector leaders to align tourism with community development.
- Advocate for projects and policies that strengthen the destination ecosystem.
REQUIRED SKILLS & CHARACTERISTICS
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Highest ethical standards and professionalism.
- Strong leadership, planning, and organizational abilities.
- Interpersonal, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
- Strategic thinking with the ability to use research and data for analysis and decision-making.
- Time management, multitasking, and prioritization skills.
- Team-oriented leadership style.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred
- Minimum five years of leadership experience in destination management, tourism, economic development or a related field
- Experience in tourism or destination marketing is strongly preferred
TRAVEL DEMANDS
This position involves regular local engagement as well as regional and national travel, including overnight stays and occasional weekends.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This position requires the ability to lift and carry up to approximately 40 pounds on occasion.
Interested applicants should send a cover letter and resume to info@rustonlincoln.com.