Executive Director

About Go Lake Havasu: Go Lake Havasu is a dynamic destination marketing organization, structured to promote economic development through tourism to Lake Havasu City, Arizona. We aim for national recognition as a premier destination, offering expansive waters, stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and year‑round events. As a DMO, Go Lake Havasu undertakes marketing and advertising, visitor services and information, convention and event support, partnerships with local businesses and other stakeholders, and other critical functions. The Board of Directors governs Go Lake Havasu by establishing policies, setting strategic objectives, appointing the chief executive, ensuring financial resources, approving budgets, and being accountable to stakeholders for the organization's performance. The organization is supported by a contract for services from Lake Havasu City in the amount of $1.6 million annually. About the Position: The Executive Director for Go Lake Havasu is a confident leader with demonstrated experience within the destination marketing and tourism industry. This position develops the strategic vision for the organization to enhance the visitor experience and drive economic growth. Strong knowledge of and experience with marketing strategies, campaign development, and implementation across various channels is critical, along with using data to evaluate performance. The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of the nuances of tourism destinations, evolving tourism trends, and the importance of stakeholder communications and is focused on building relationships with the board, staff, agencies, local partners and the Lake Havasu community. The successful candidate will live and work in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. Leadership & Vision Provide executive leadership and strategic vision to Go Lake Havasu, serving as the primary driver of the organization's long‑term direction to position Lake Havasu City as a must‑visit destination, create community impact and economic growth through tourism. Partner closely with the Board of Directors on strategic planning, policy development, budget oversight, and program implementation. Develop a monthly reporting dashboard that outlines operating initiatives and key outcomes. Foster a culture of ethical practice, individual integrity, and organizational excellence that strengthens Go Lake Havasu's reputation across all constituencies. Champion crisis communications and destination resilience planning, leading the organization's response to disruptions – including natural events, economic downturns, or reputational challenges – with confidence and transparency. Destination Marketing & Economic Growth Develop and execute robust destination marketing strategies that elevate Lake Havasu City's regional and national reputation, driving measurable tourism growth and positive economic impact. Promote Lake Havasu’s unique assets (lake activities, London Bridge, outdoor recreation, year‑round events) to target audiences (leisure travelers, groups, meetings). Oversee third party agencies and champion a consistent, compelling, and cohesive community brand message across all platforms and partnerships. Pursue co‑op marketing opportunities through the Arizona Office of Tourism and other state and regional partners, as well as grants and partnership programs that expand the organization's reach and resources. Build and steward strategic partnerships with city leadership, City Council, business leaders, and community organizations to maximize the area's collective marketing potential. Oversee data‑driven marketing strategy, leveraging DMO technology platforms and visitor analytics to guide investment decisions and optimize ROI. Actively pursue and support the recruitment of events, tournaments, and bookings that generate measurable overnight stays and visitor spending in Lake Havasu City. Community Engagement & External Relations Demonstrate strong public speaking and media relations skills as the chief spokesperson and public relations representative for Go Lake Havasu, representing the organization with confidence and persuasion in all public forums. Engage with the community to balance growth with resident quality of life and conservation efforts. Support event development and sponsorships that drive visitation. Serve as the ambassador of the organization, strategically participating and engaging with key partners across civic, business, and tourism communities. Quickly embrace and authentically tell the story of Lake Havasu City, connecting the destination's unique identity to broader audiences. Actively engage with Destinations International and the broader DMO industry community, pursuing ongoing professional development and staying current on destination marketing trends, best practices, and emerging opportunities. Operations & Team Leadership Lead a team of six with a hands‑on management style, prioritizing staff coaching, development, and a high‑performance culture. Direct daily operations using sound business judgment and aligning people, processes, and assets to achieve the optimal balance of service delivery and financial outcomes. Treat city‑allocated funding as a sacred public trust, maintaining rigorous results‑based accountability and fiscal stewardship. Qualifications Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience, with prior CVB, DMO, hospitality and/or tourism industry experience. Demonstrated experience in budget development and financial oversight, including management of public or grant‑funded resources. Proven track record in destination marketing, group sales, partnership development, and community relations. Exceptional public speaking, written communication, and media relations skills. Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and inspire a team in a collaborative, mission‑driven environment. Passion for Lake Havasu City and a genuine enthusiasm for living and working in a tourism‑driven community. Benefits This position offers a very competitive salary plus a superior benefits package, including health insurance with a HSA, dental coverage and a retirement plan. To Apply: Please send cover letter and resume to View email address on click.appcast.io. Phone calls, emails, messages, and in‑person visits will not be considered. #J-18808-Ljbffr