Executive Director

**Please read complete job description for instruction on how to apply. Applications submitted directly through LinkedIn will not be considered. A job application link must be requested.

Mission:

Promoting Spearfish as the premier visitor destination within the Black Hills and South Dakota for the purpose of growing a robust economy and community.

Position Summary

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive and strategic leader of Visit Spearfish, Inc., responsible for advancing Spearfish as a premier destination for tourism, meetings, conventions, and events. This role oversees all organizational operations, strategic planning, destination marketing, stakeholder engagement, and financial management, while fostering strong partnerships across the community and tourism industry.

Reporting Structure

Reports to: Board of Directors, Visit Spearfish, Inc.

Supervises: All staff, contractors, interns, and volunteers

Primary Job Responsibilities

·       Direct all administrative, operating, and marketing functions of Visit Spearfish, Inc.

·       Develop and implement strategic and annual operating and marketing plans with supporting budget

·       Staff and manage a 12-month-per-year visitor center (six days per week between Memorial Day and Labor Day, five days per week the remaining months)

·       Proactively solicit and support conventions and events in Spearfish venues

·       Establish effective communications with local, regional, and state associations, tourism offices, and marketing cooperatives

·       Travel and participate in regional trade shows and conferences to promote Spearfish as a conference and vacation destination

·       Oversee all advertising and promotional agency planning and activities

·       Select, train, and supervise employees and volunteers

·       Attend and participate in meetings with collaborating agencies within the Spearfish community

·       Attend and participate in meetings with collaborating agencies within the region

·       Responsible for all facility management including, but not limited to, cleaning of visitor center/offices/common areas, snow removal, basic repairs, and security of facility and contents

·       Other duties as assigned, at the discretion of the board of directors

Qualifications

·       Bachelor’s degree – preferably in business administration, marketing, tourism, non-profit leadership, or related field

·       Minimum five years experience in a corporate/public/association leadership position with successful management of strategy, people, projects, and budgets

·       Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel), shared file management systems, web and social media analytics platforms, social media channels, and working knowledge of graphic design software

·       Preference given to direct experience in tourism, destination, or community marketing

·       Preference given to experience developing and executing marketing campaigns and working with advertising agencies

·       Strong communication skills including writing, presentations, and public speaking

·       Strong critical thinking and conflict resolution skills

·       Willingness to work a varied schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays – alongside all other Visit Spearfish staff

·       Outgoing, creative, entrepreneurial spirit and ability to maintain and create industry relationships and partnerships

Essential Functions (ADA Compliant)

·       Ability to stand for extended periods of time

·       Ability to sit at a desk for extended periods

·       Ability to lift up to 30 pounds

·       Ability to bend, lift, and walk long distances

·       Ability to work extended hours, including 12–14 hour days when necessary

Compensation

Salary/Benefit Stipend Package: $70,000-$80,000

Salary range includes cash benefit stipend and is commensurate with education/experience.

Application Deadline:

Applications received by April 30, 2026, at 11:59PM, will receive first consideration.

The position will remain open until filled, with a final application deadline of May 15, 2026, at 11:59PM.

To apply, please email director@visitspearfish.com to receive the application link.

If you have questions or concerns regarding the form, please contact Mistie Caldwell at director@visitspearfish.com or call 605-717-9294.

Visit Spearfish, Inc., is a 501c6 non-profit organization. Employment is not with the City of Spearfish.