The Director of Tourism and Economic Growth is responsible for showcasing McHenry as a welcoming place to visit, shop, and enjoy through local tourism promotion, small-scale event coordination, and management of the McHenry Riverwalk Shoppes program. This role emphasizes community-driven marketing efforts, small business support, and Riverwalk Shoppes programming, while providing support for the Chamber’s larger signature events.
This role can be 30 hours/week or full-time right away depending on candidate fit.
Schedule: Primarily weekdays with some evenings/weekends for events and vendor support.
What You’ll Do
Riverwalk Shoppes Program
- Recruit, onboard, and support retail incubator participants and seasonal vendors.
- Plan and run retail incubator workshops with guest speakers.
- Oversee vendor communication and property management, including inspections and basic maintenance coordination.
Event Responsibilities
- Plan and coordinate small-scale Riverwalk Shoppes events such as vendor fairs, holiday promotions, and seasonal activities.
- Support the Chamber team in executing large signature events, assisting with logistics, vendor coordination, marketing, and on-site operations.
- Ensure Riverwalk Shoppes events integrate local tourism promotion and community engagement.
Marketing & Communications
- Develop social media and marketing campaigns for the Riverwalk Shoppes and local tourism promotions.
- Coordinate with local media, vendors, and partners for promotional opportunities.
Tourism & Community Promotion
- Build partnerships with local businesses, attractions, and organizations to increase visitor traffic and community visibility.
- Create promotional content (social media, digital, print) that markets McHenry as a vibrant place to shop, dine, and explore.
Chamber Support
- Assist the Chamber team with larger signature events (logistics, vendor support, on-site operations).
- Provide updates at Board meetings on Riverwalk Shoppes and tourism efforts.
- Support Chamber initiatives and member services as needed.
What We’re Looking For
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; comfortable with public speaking.
- Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects at once.
- Proficient with social media and digital marketing; able to create professional content.
- Skilled at building relationships with vendors, members, and community partners.
- Independent and collaborative working style.
Bonus if you have:
- Graphic design experience (Canva or Adobe).
- Event planning and coordination experience.
- Familiarity with retail or small business support.
- A background in tourism promotion, community development, or marketing.
Why Join Us?
- Pay: $23–$27/hour, plus mileage and approved expenses.
- Flexibility: 30 hours/week or potential full-time immediately.
- Impact: Play a direct role in helping local businesses thrive and strengthening our community.
- Community: Join a passionate, supportive team that cares about McHenry’s success.
To Apply
Send your resume (and a short note on why you’re a great fit) to Molly Ostap at molly@mchenrychamber.com with the subject line: Director of Tourism and Economic Growth – [Your Name].
Applications reviewed as received; priority consideration by September 15.
