MS State Port Authority is hiring: Director of Communications and Marketing in G

Position Title: Director of Communications and Marketing Salary Range: $75,000 - $105,000 Exempt Position Application Deadline: January 31, 2025 About Mississippi State Port Authority: Situated on the Gulf of Mexico in Gulfport, Mississippi, the Port of Gulfport is a deep-water, international seaport and a major contributor to the local and national economy. As the second-largest importer of green fruit in the U.S. and a pivotal gateway for Central American trade, it connects 75% of the U.S. market within just 24 hours. The Port is more than a maritime hub; it's a key driver of economic development and innovation in the region and State, and a significant player in global maritime trade and the Blue Economy. About the Position: The Director of Communications and Marketing of the Mississippi State Port Authority manages the public image, media relations, and community engagement of the Port of Gulfport. The Director plans, develops, and implements the Port’s overall communications, marketing strategies, branding, and public relations activities. The position drives marketing strategies that directly contribute to business development and support the growth and economic success of the Port and the region. Reporting to the Chief of Staff, the Director is an integral member of the Port’s senior leadership team that fosters collaboration and communication across internal organizational efforts and external business initiatives and community engagements. The Essential Functions: Public Affairs and Community Relations: Oversee the Port’s ports public relations strategy to maintain and enhance its image with key stakeholders, industry partners, and the local community. Create and implement a comprehensive communications plan. Organize and facilitate tours, presentations, and events to deepen understanding of the Port’s mission and contributions. Serve as the main point of contact for media inquiries, interviews, and public-facing engagements. Maintain involvement in professional and community organizations. Marketing and Brand Strategy: Design and implement marketing strategies that highlight the Port’s services, facilities, and economic impact. Collaborate with the business development team to create targeted marketing initiatives that align with the Port’s goals and enhance its brand identity. Oversee the production of marketing collateral, educational materials, digital content, and video campaigns. Ensure the Port’s website is updated and regularly maintained. Lead the planning and oversight of a future new website launch. Event Planning and Meeting Coordination: Lead the planning and executive of port events, promotional campaigns, and community engagement meetings. Oversee the sourcing and tracking of promotional items in support of marketing, business development, and community engagement initiatives. Identify and recommend leadership participation in business events, conferences, community meetings, and trade shows. Strategic Oversight: Advise executive leadership on communication strategies and oversee crisis communication plans. Manage the communications, marketing, and promotions budget. Design and update presentations for the CEO and other Port executives. Prepare and support the CEO and other executives for key engagements by coordinating briefing materials. As directed by the Chief of Staff, serve as a Press Secretary to provide on-site staffing and media liaison support to CEO and executives during public appearances, meetings, and Knowledge Skills and Abilities: Good organizational, time management, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills. Professional attitude and skills to relate to senior management, staff, and business and community leaders. Exhibits excellent leadership, self-direction, and good judgment in handling difficult situations. Effective verbal and written communication skills and the ability to present information clearly and professionally to varying levels of individuals. Experience developing communications and marketing plans, overseeing community engagement and outreach initiatives, and working with executive leadership, public officials, and boards/governing bodies preferred. Must have computer skills and be proficient with Windows applications and Microsoft Office. The ability to work on a Mac platform is also desired. Qualifications and Experience: Minimum of eight (8) years of communications and marketing experience, and three (3) years or more years of supervisory experience. Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, or related field preferred. Considerable relevant work experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may substitute for education requirements. We Offer: A supportive, fun, and collaborative work environment on the coast of Mississippi. Comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and MS State PERS retirement. Opportunities for professional development, including tuition reimbursement after one year of employment. How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience online or by emailing employmentshipmspa.com recblid z94b9lnknetroufhk4ou46mg8fxdbe