The Chamber is looking for a Director to lead tourism development and showcase all that Paragould has to offer!
Job Description: Director of Travel & Tourism
Location: Paragould, Arkansas
Position Overview
The Convention and Visitor Bureau (CVB) Director will serve as the lead strategist and champion for positioning Paragould and Greene County as a destination for visitors, small conventions, statewide meetings and events. Working in partnership with the City of Paragould, Greene County, and regional stakeholders, this role is central to advancing Paragould’s vision of becoming a vibrant hub for culture, recreation, and tourism.
The Director will oversee efforts to promote The Station and Power Plant Park area as premier downtown attractions and event venues, while also connecting visitors to the region’s natural beauty, including Crowley’s Ridge State Park and Lake Frierson State Park. In addition, the Director will collaborate closely with the Paragould Parks and Recreation Department to expand sports tourism, recruiting baseball, softball, and other athletic tournaments that bring visitors and economic impact to the community.
The CVB Director will also serve as the official host and spokesperson, welcoming groups, conventions, and delegations to Paragould, and representing the community when addressing visitors and tourism-related gatherings.
This position is centered on advancing tourism and visitor engagement, which means the schedule will not always follow traditional business hours. Because tourism-related events, festivals, tournaments, and group visits often occur outside of a standard 8–5 workday, the role will require flexibility, including some evenings and weekends. Candidates should be comfortable working in a dynamic, event-driven environment where schedules may shift to align with community activities, tourism seasons, and special events.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategy
- Develop and implement a comprehensive destination marketing strategy to promote Paragould and Greene County.
- Position The Station and Power Plant Park as signature venues for concerts, conventions, festivals, and statewide meetings.
- Partner with the Paragould Parks and Recreation Department to actively recruit and support regional and state-level ball tournaments and other athletic events.
- Strengthen partnerships with Arkansas State Parks and local recreation groups to highlight Crowley’s Ridge State Park, Lake Frierson, and outdoor tourism.
- Align tourism strategies with the City of Paragould A&P, Paragould Forward, and the Chamber Foundation’s broader community development goals.
Marketing & Promotion
- Create campaigns showcasing Paragould’s unique blend of historic downtown, live music, outdoor recreation, and sports tourism.
- Develop visitor guides, maps, and itineraries that highlight downtown attractions, state parks, and tournament-ready sports facilities.
- Oversee digital marketing, social media, and media relations to ensure consistent storytelling of Paragould as a must-visit destination.
- Represent Paragould at tourism trade shows, state conferences, sports association meetings, and regional events.
Community & Stakeholder Engagement
- Collaborate with local hotels, restaurants, and attractions to create visitor packages, particularly tied to tournaments and multi-day events.
- Support and expand major community festivals such as the Loose Caboose Festival.
- Serve as the liaison to city, county, and state agencies to maximize tourism impact and funding opportunities.
- Act as the official greeter and public face of Paragould tourism, welcoming groups, delivering remarks, and speaking on behalf of the City of Paragould and Chamber CEO.
- Build partnerships with outdoor and recreational organizations to grow eco-tourism, heritage tourism, and sports tourism.
Operations & Administration
- Manage the CVB’s budget with a focus on delivering measurable return on investment.
- Collect, analyze, and share visitor and tourism data (including hotel occupancy, visitor spending, and tournament attendance).
- Report regularly to the CVB Board, City of Paragould, and Greene County officials.
- Supervise staff, contractors, or volunteers supporting tourism promotion.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in tourism, marketing, communications, hospitality, or related field (Master’s preferred).
5+ years of progressive experience in destination marketing, event planning, sports tourism, or hospitality leadership.
Strong record of building partnerships and leading collaborative community initiatives.
Demonstrated skills in marketing, branding, and public communication.
Knowledge of sports tourism, tournament operations, and the Arkansas parks system preferred.
Desired Skills
Visionary leadership with the ability to connect heritage, recreation, sports, and economic growth.
Excellent communication and presentation skills, including public speaking.
Strong organizational, budget management, and problem-solving abilities.
Proficiency in digital marketing tools and CRM/event management systems.
Passion for building community pride and showcasing the authentic Paragould experience.
Reports To
Paragould Chamber CEO
Works in partnership with the City of Paragould, Greene County, Paragould Parks and Recreation Department, and the Paragould Regional Chamber of Commerce/Paragould Forward.
Salary & Benefit
Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
Health and paid time off benefits.
Opportunities for professional development and industry association memberships.
To Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing the position they are applying for via email to
The Paragould Regional Chamber of Commerce in an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
