Director of Marketing and Strategic Communications

Distinguishing Characteristics:

Under minimal guidance and administrative direction, the Director of Marketing and Strategic Communications, works to create and successfully execute plans and initiatives in support of the marketing and communications strategic priorities, with the objective of increasing customer awareness and usage of Tucson Airport Authority (TAA) services and increasing air service options for both inbound and outbound travelers at Tucson International Airport (TUS).The Director of Marketing and Strategic Communications will collaborate effectively within the airport industry as well as with community leaders and stakeholders to promote and maximize all aspects of TAA's business, operations and economic development opportunities at both TUS and Ryan Airfield (RYN); develop strategic messaging, both internal and external; and cultivate a steadfast commitment to hospitality and collaboration.

Essential Functions:
The following functions and all other functions not included in this job description are to be performed in the best interests and for the greater good of TAA.

• Support and advocate for TAA’s Mission, Vision, Guiding Principles and act as a champion and role-model of TAA’s Cultural Fundamentals.
• Work in close collaboration with the President/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Chief Communications Officer (CCO) in the development of the marketing and advertising plans, programs, and promotions that seek to drive additional demand and revenue for TUS, leading to additional/fully utilized air service.
• Manage external advertising campaigns through radio, TV, out of home, digital, print, and other media.
• Manage internal and external communications, including writing memos and newsletters.
• Direct, supervise, and evaluate performance of directly reporting staff utilizing established TAA criteria, performing or recommending training, coaching, and mentoring to keep staff operating at the highest level of skill necessary for meeting organization needs and objectives.
• Participate in domestic and international trade shows and conferences relevant to areas of responsibility.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with business partners and community leaders to promote TAA and usage of the airport system.
• Research, develop, and implement strategies to increase airport usage; identify target markets for strategic marketing initiatives; monitor and analyze performance trends and passenger data; reduce leakage to surrounding airports;
• Develop, recommend, and implement new marketing initiatives that are innovative yet aligned with TAA brand standards and guidelines.
• Manage marketing consultants’ projects, products and contracts.
• Conduct surveys of business and leisure travelers to inform strategic marketing decisions.
• Provide technical and informational assistance to the regional travel/tourism industry to enhance state, local, and industry efforts to promote tourism within Tucson and Southern Arizona. Promote TUS, TAA and RYN within airports’ service areas.
• Develop and present reports and presentations on existing marketing trends, performance, and initiatives to the TAA Board, TAA leaders, community leaders and influencers, industry and professional groups.
• Assist in the development of the department’s annual operating budget; monitor the department budget; develop and submit recommendations for the Capital Improvement, Major Maintenance and Capital Outlay Programs as related to the department’s areas of responsibility.
• Develop and facilitate department goals and objectives to support the Strategic Plan and monitor progress; collaborate with other TAA departments and divisions to coordinate goals and objectives that require a cross-functional team approach.
• Be responsive to airport emergencies and situations that may involve loss of human life or property; support public safety and operational response to emergencies; utilize Incident Command System (ICS)/National Incident Management System (NIMS) protocols and procedures; coordinate and/or participate in after-action emergency de-briefing with appropriate departments and stakeholders.

The above-listed functions are not necessarily all the essential functions. Job duties and functions may be expanded or reduced by management based on future changing needs and job requirements and based on specific needs of the departments or division assigned.