Destination Development Coordinator - Tourism Sarnia-Lambton

About the role

The Destination Development Coordinator is responsible for advancing tourism growth throughout Sarnia-Lambton by supporting tourism businesses, developing visitor experiences, fostering industry partnerships, and implementing destination development initiatives aligned with Tourism Sarnia-Lambton's strategic plan.

Responsibilities

• Identify opportunities for new tourism products, experiences, itineraries, and packages throughout Lambton County.
• Work with tourism operators to enhance existing visitor experiences.
• Aid businesses in developing tourism-ready products and services.
• Support the creation and expansion of themed tourism trails, experiences, and destination initiatives.
• Identify tourism development gaps and opportunities through industry consultation.
• Support implementation of Tourism Sarnia-Lambton's destination development priorities.
• Maintain strong working relationships with tourism operators, municipalities, chambers of commerce, BIAs, economic development offices, and community organizations.
• Conduct regular site visits with tourism businesses and attractions.
• Serve as a resource for tourism operators regarding industry trends, best practices, and funding opportunities.
• Cook up tourism industry networking opportunities and stakeholder engagement sessions.
• Support municipal tourism initiatives and collaborative projects.
• Coordinate tourism workshops, training sessions, and educational opportunities.
• Aid operators in improving visitor readiness and service excellence.
• Promote industry best practices and emerging tourism trends.
• Support workforce development initiatives within the tourism sector.
• Encourage industry participation in regional and provincial tourism programs.
• Plan and coordinate familiarization (FAM) tours for tourism stakeholders, media, travel trade representatives, and industry partners.
• Develop itineraries that showcase the region's tourism assets and experiences.
• Cook up industry showcases and tourism awareness initiatives.

Requirements

• Education: Diploma or Degree in: Tourism Management, Business Administration, Economic Development, Recreation & Leisure Studies, Community Development, Marketing (Tourism Focus), Related field.
• Experience: 2–5 years experience in tourism, economic development, destination development, community development, event management, or stakeholder relations preferred.
• Experience: Experience working with multiple stakeholders and community partners.
• Knowledge: Knowledge of tourism industry trends and destination management principles.
• Experience: Experience coordinating projects and initiatives.
• Skills: Relationship building and stakeholder engagement, Project management, Event coordination, Tourism industry knowledge, Strategic thinking and problem solving, Strong written and verbal communication, Report writing and research, Microsoft Office Suite proficiency.
• Other: Valid Ontario driver's license and ability to travel throughout Lambton County.