Manager of Business Communications and Events

POSITION: Manager of Business Communications and Events REPORTS TO: Senior Vice President, Economic Development GENERAL FUNCTIONS: The Manager of Business Communications and Events will lead efforts to position Springfield as a prime location for business and talent attraction. This role involves overseeing marketing strategies, messaging, and related budgets to ensure alignment with the Chamber's mission of driving economic growth. The manager will collaborate closely with the economic development and communications team to execute key marketing initiatives and provide strategic guidance. Additionally, this position will coordinate Springfield Business Development Corporation (SBDC) investor relations, organizing events and communications that reinforce the Chamber’s economic development objectives and encourage continued investment. This individual must possess effective communication and marketing skills to support Springfield’s growth and foster meaningful business connections. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Including, but not limited to the following Manage the design, production, execution and maintenance of the overall marketing strategy and budget to meet the Springfield region’s economic development goals and target industries. Design, produce, and maintain the key messaging elements, including websites, publications, videos, and other marketing resources for the Business Attraction Initiative and assist in various efforts to recruit and retain businesses for the Springfield region. Oversee the creation of a budget and determine delivery methods to appropriately spend marketing dollars for the economic and workforce development programs. Provide updates to webpages of the organizations affiliated with the Chamber of Commerce including, but not limited to: www.liveinspringfieldmo.com and www.springfieldregion.com Lead SEO and digital marketing initiatives for Springfield’s regional websites (e.g., SpringfieldRegion.com, LiveInSpringfieldMo.com), collaborating with external vendors to improve online presence in key target markets and attract business and talent. Oversee the creation and maintenance of content for talent attraction efforts, including blog posts, relocation guides, and drip marketing campaigns; collaborate with external vendors to ensure content aligns with strategic goals and resonates with target audiences. Plan and lead the execution of the SBDC Annual Meeting, the annual Outlook Event Series, and other topical meetings to ensure strong engagement with current and prospective investors. Ensure that all logistical aspects, from catering to audiovisual equipment, are in place for a successful event. Design and develop the Springfield region’s presence and materials at various trade shows and events within the region’s marketing targets. Collaborate with other team members in the development and implementation of other events, and materials for companies, site consultants, and residents considering Springfield to ensure the brand design guidelines and messages are consistent. Develop and maintain ongoing investor communications strategies, including newsletters, reports, and special announcements. Explore opportunities to revive legacy investor engagement initiatives, like the SBDC Investor Brief, to meet evolving stakeholder needs. Assist and advise the Senior Vice President of Economic Development. Adhere to and support all SBDC and Chamber of Commerce policies and procedures; maintain professional accountability to workplace standards. Observe confidentiality on all matters pertaining to ED projects, to Chamber operations, and regarding financial and personnel matters. Operate within existing budgets and policies. Represent the Chamber on various committees and boards as needed. Assist in the execution of items outlined in each year’s goals and action plans for the Chamber. CRITERIA/SKILLS PREFERRED: Including, but not limited to the following 3 years’ marketing experience and a bachelor’s degree in affiliated discipline preferred. A firm understanding of marketing and use of SEO to generate web traffic. An individual whose self-guided initiative spurs him/her to look for data that helps sell the greater region to attract workers and primary industry sectors to locate within the region. Demonstrate basic knowledge of graphic design and visual aesthetics. Demonstrate exceptional writing, messaging, and storytelling capabilities. Work with diverse groups and provide exemplary customer service. Demonstrate flexibility to accept a variety of roles to accomplish team goals. Possess strong organizational and information technology skills with attention to detail. Possesses the ability to collaborate with Chamber departments and external organizations. Economic development experience preferred but not required. EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Exempt ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION : The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce is a purpose-driven team of dynamic individuals who work to make the Springfield region an exciting place to live, work and play. Our work builds thriving communities. Our culture celebrates team members and volunteers every day. Being a part of the Chamber team empowers you to engage in meaningful work with many opportunities to impact the region’s quality of life in a positive way. Our team members are connected to top business and civic leaders in efforts that have influence across the region. The Chamber, recently recognized as a "Best Place to Work” by Biz417 , is committed to investing in the professional development of its team members and provides a highly competitive benefits package.