Sport Tourism Director

Job Title: Sport Tourism Director

Location: Billings, Montana

Organization: Visit Billings (Managed by the Billings Chamber of Commerce)

Reports To: Visit Billings Executive Director

Position Summary:

Visit Billings is seeking an experienced and dynamic Sport Tourism Director to lead and oversee Visit Billings Sports. This role will be responsible for establishing and managing a sports commission or authority for Billings, Montana, with the goal of driving tourism through sporting events. The Sport Tourism Director will spearhead efforts to attract and execute high-impact sporting events by collaborating with key stakeholders, managing bids, and overseeing event execution. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, sales experience, and the ability to engage with community partners to enhance Billings' reputation as a premier sports tourism destination.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive sports tourism strategy for Billings.
• Oversee the creation of a Billings Sports Commission or Authority, establishing governance, structure, and operational procedures.
• Develop and submit sports bids to attract events that align with the mission of Visit Billings Sports.
• Collaborate with local government, sports organizations, facilities, and community stakeholders to enhance the city's sports tourism offerings.
• Coordinate, and execute sporting events in partnership with event organizers, facilities, and community partners.
• Manage relationships with national, regional, and local sports organizations to position Billings as a competitive destination for sports tourism.
• Lead sales efforts to secure sporting events that drive overnight stays and economic impact for the region.
• Serve as the primary liaison between Visit Billings and sports event rights holders, ensuring seamless communication and execution.
• Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and reporting for sports tourism initiatives.
• Develop and deliver presentations to stakeholders, partners, and community groups to promote sports tourism efforts.
• Eventually oversee and mentor a Sports Tourism Manager to support the department's growth and success.

Core Competencies:

• Strong public speaking and presentation skills.
• Proven sales experience, with a track record of attracting and closing business opportunities.
• Excellent organizational and project management abilities.
• Effective leadership skills with the ability to build and maintain strategic relationships.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.
• Knowledge of sports event planning, bidding processes, and event execution.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, sports organizations, and community partners.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in sports management, business, tourism, or a related field preferred.
• 3 years of experience in sports tourism, event management, or destination marketing.
• Experience in sales, business development, or client relationship management.
• Familiarity with sports facility operations and event logistics.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and database management systems.
• Experience working with local government and community organizations is a plus.

Work Environment & Travel:

• This position will require flexibility, including working evenings and weekends as necessary.
• Travel will be required for industry conferences, client meetings, and event site visits.

Benefits:

Competitive salary depending on experience, generous performance based annual bonus and comprehensive benefits package including: Medical, dental, vision insurance – 75% employer paid premium; life, and long-term disability insurance; Paid Time Off; Flexible spending accounts; paid holidays and floating holidays; 401(k) 3% employer contribution & up to 4% match (must meet eligibility requirements).

Join Visit Billings and play a pivotal role in driving economic impact and enhancing the community through sports tourism initiatives. If you have a passion for sports and tourism, we want to hear from you! Qualified candidates submit a cover letter and resume to hr@billingschamber.com for consideration. Full job description available at time of interview or upon request. EEO.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• Evenings as needed
• Monday to Friday
• Nights as needed
• Weekends as needed

Ability to Commute:

• Billings, MT 59101 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Billings, MT 59101: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person