Destination Development Director

Company Description

Explore Boone serves as the Destination Marketing Organization for Boone and Watauga County in the scenic northwestern mountains of North Carolina. Representing the Boone and Watauga County Tourism Development Authorities, Explore Boone promotes the area’s unique attractions, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. The organization is dedicated to fostering sustainable tourism while driving economic growth and supporting the local community. Explore Boone is a trusted resource for residents, visitors, and tourism stakeholders alike.

               Director of Destination Development

Position Description:

This position will oversee the tourism development authority’s destination development projects as outlined in the Imagine Watauga Plan and oversee the TDA’s tourism infrastructure initiatives/projects.

Destination Development:

·        The Destination Development Director is responsible for improving and managing tourism infrastructure to attract visitors and benefit the local community.

·        Responsible for overseeing destination development projects in Boone and Watauga County including, but not limited to projects outlines in the “Imagine Watauga Plan.”

·        Responsible for reviewing the condition of TDA funded tourism infrastructure projects and making recommendations for repairs, upgrades, or expansion of facilities, trails, signage, etc.

·        Responsible for strategic growth plans and responsible tourism strategies to help ensure our destination is competitive and sustainable.

·        Oversee and monitor destination wayfinding signage.

·        Act as a liaison between the TDA, tourism partners, and entities like the Blue Ridge Conservancy and Boone Area Cyclists.

·        Oversee and monitor third-party contractors and consultants as needed.

·        Seek and apply for grant funding, which includes grant writing and grant management.

·        Sustainability Focused – Balancing economic tourism benefits with environmental and community needs. 

Required skills:

·        Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism Management, Hospitality, Business, or related fields

·        Previous experience in destination development, community engagement, or tourism development.

·        Strong project management, relationship building, and data analysis skills.

·        Ability to lead and coordinate with diverse community stakeholders

·        Ability to market and promote a project.

·        Excellent public speaking and negotiation skills

Reports to:   Watauga County TDA’s Executive Director

Salary & Benefits:  This is a full-time salaried in-person position located in downtown Boone, NC. Benefits include employee health and dental insurance, vacation and sick leave time, retirement plan, and paid holidays.

• How to Apply:     Please submit a current resume and cover letter via email to tda@exploreboone.com