Job Description

Tourism Kelowna is seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to fill the Director of Community & Visitor Engagement position. This senior-level position will play a crucial role in enhancing our destination’s appeal, connecting visitors with tourism experiences, and supporting the balanced growth of our sustainable, four-season visitor economy.

The Director of Visitor & Community Engagement reports to the President and CEO and involves operational management, visitor services, stakeholder engagement, and destination development. This role requires a service-oriented leader with strong team leadership abilities, excellent interpersonal skills, and a passion for promoting the Okanagan Valley as a premier tourist destination. As a department director and member of the Senior Leadership Team, this role is also a member of Tourism Kelowna’s Senior Leadership Team, responsible for collectively guiding the organization towards goals and objectives.

Responsibilities & Qualifications

Key Responsibilities
• Fulfillment of the Community & Visitor Engagement department’s annual tactical plan, visitor centre operations, and retail and consignment program.
• Facilities and information technology management of the Kelowna Visitor Centre.
• Together with the Department Manager, responsible for all Human Resources development, including staff recruitment, onboarding, training, and performance management.
• Prepare, submit, and manage grant and funding applications for Community & Visitor Engagement initiatives.
• Apply Human Resources best practices in managing and coaching high-achieving service teams.
• Ensure a strong, positive staff and volunteer workplace culture aligned with service goals and organizational values.
• Foster relationships with community stakeholders, including residents, businesses, sector committees, and partner organizations.
• Represent Tourism Kelowna on local committees and consultations to promote the value of the tourism economy in community decision-making.
• Develop the annual Destination Development project plan, including community consultation and supervision of the Destination Development Coordinator.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have
• Experience in tourism and community engagement: At least 5 years of leadership experience in tourism, hospitality destination management, or community relations.

• Experience managing and motivating teams: Demonstrated ability to create great workplaces, positive culture, and engaged teams while ensuring high service levels and operational efficiency.

• Organizational and project management skills: Budget development and management experience, strong organizational and multitasking abilities, creative problem solving, and experience managing multiple projects and priorities.

• Communication and relationship building skills: Outstanding communication and presentation skills, with demonstrated ability to foster relationships with community leaders, tourism partners, and stakeholder groups.
• Travel and work flexibility: Willingness to travel locally to meet with stakeholders and regionally to represent Tourism Kelowna; occasional evening and weekend work.
• Familiarity with customer-facing, nonprofit, or retail environments would be an asset.

Qualifications
• Must be based in Kelowna.
• Post-secondary credentials in tourism or hospitality management, business administration, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a senior leadership role within the tourism or hospitality industry
• Class 5 driver’s license and passport required

Salary/Wage

$85,000-$115,000

Other Perks/Benefits

• This is a level 4 position under Tourism Kelowna’s established salary grid: $85,000 - $115,000 plus comprehensive benefits package. • Opportunity to shape the future of tourism in one of Canada's most beautiful and beloved destinations. • Collaborative work environment with a passionate team • A hybrid work environment combining work from home with in-person office days. • Work with a passionate team and a values-based organization: Purposeful, Forward-Thinking, Welcoming, Nurturing, and Authentic.

Recommended Training

SuperHost Service For All

Job Application Process

Send resumes to careers@tourismkelowna.com

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