Director Marketing and Communication - Zoo

Closing Date: 3/6/24 or upon receipt of 50 application submissions.

Director of Marketing and Communications
Zoo Department, Full time, Salary
Pay Range: $93,516.80 – $121,534.44

JOB SUMMARY:  To manage, supervise and coordinate to develop actionable and innovative Zoo marketing, communications, promotions and sales efforts and staff. Areas include advertising, brand management, public relations, media relations, social media marketing, website management, group and advanced ticket sales, facility rentals, event and attraction sponsorships, special events, audiovisual and photography services, informational and directional on-grounds signage.  Collaborates heavily with enterprise partners for attraction sponsorships and enterprise-wide marketing.

JOB DUTIES:

• Develop and manage short and long-term marketing and sales efforts. Direct staff, sales, and creative strategies in a coordinated effort to ultimately increase rental, ticket, event and overall, Zoo revenue and attendance.
• In coordination with the Zoological Society, solicit sponsorships and marketing partnerships for Zoo events, attractions, programs and special exhibits. Coordinate sponsor activation efforts and delivery of sponsor benefits.
• Direct the Marketing and Events Manager, strategically schedule, plan and coordinate public-facing events designed to increase attendance and revenue. Coordinate advertising strategy and sponsor involvement. When necessary assist with staffing and facilitation of events. 
• Direct sales manager and staff, develop strategies for marketing private facility rentals, consignment/advanced ticket program and groups tours that will result in increased revenues.  Includes but not limited to supporting Sales Manager with budgeting, contract development, pricing, and promotional efforts.
• Develop and direct Public Relations Manager, public relations and media efforts including all promotional materials and programs that  keep Zoo top-of-mind to public and promote events, attractions, and programs.  When necessary act as media relations liaison and  Zoo spokesperson.
• Supervise the work and performance of the Marketing and Communications Team, providing leadership through motivation, engagement, feedback, support, and development. Maximize employee and team effectiveness.  Schedule and direct work assignments and authorize time records.  Coordinate the recruitment, hiring, orientation, training, and evaluation of the team. 
• Regularly participate in senior-level planning and decision-making process as a Division Head and member of Zoo senior management team. Participate in the manager-on-duty (MOD) rotation serving as leader for all divisions on weekends and during evening events.
• Lead a coordinated effort to maximize effectiveness of public facing digital platforms including organic and paid social media, digital advertising and web site communications.
• In coordination with the Zoological Society Creative Department, manage on-ground signage efforts. This would include directional, animal identification, hours, etc.  Work with Creative Director to effectively manage the Zoological Society budget allocated to the Zoo for these needs.
• In coordination with Zoological Society, Marketing, and Membership departments, assist in creating consistent, collaborative zoo wide messaging for promotions, social media, membership, and fundraising.
• Other duties as assigned.

 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Current resident of the USA
• Valid Driver’s License at time of appointment and maintained during incumbency.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, Business, Communications, or related field required
• Intermediate knowledge of all related computer and software applications, such as Word, Excel, Adobe, PowerPoint.
• At least five (5) years’ related work experience in marketing, and Communications required.
• At least five (5) years of supervisory/management experience in a marketing or communications setting required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Crisis communications knowledge and/or experience preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKIILS AND ABILITIES:  

• Maintain confidentiality
• Advanced knowledge of marketing, advertising, sales, and communications
• Exceptional writing, editing and proofing ability.
• Maintain a positive culture of collaboration, accountability, and respectful behavior.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities within a fast-paced organization.
• Analytical skills, problem-solving skills, proactive nature and good people skills.
• Ability to understand and develop RFPs and contracts.
• Ability to perform some physical tasks when assisting with events.
• Ability to work with a wide variety of individuals and all levels of employees.

NOTE: This position is unclassified and not subject to Civil Service Rules and Regulations. This original application is open to qualified candidates authorized to work in the United States. Appointee must establish Wisconsin State residency within six (6) months of appointment and maintain such residency during incumbency. During the application process please upload your updated resume and cover letter outlining experience