Location : Kanawha County, WV
Job Type: Full-Time Permanent
Job Number: CMO-TOUR
Department: - Not in the Classified Service, See Posting
Opening Date: 11/13/2026
Closing Date: 12/11/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
LOCATION OF VACANCY: KANAWHA
Civil Service Type:: Non-Covered - This Position is Not Covered OR Classified Under the DOP Merit System
Skills Based Hiring:: No
Nature of WorkHOW TO APPLY: Please email all resumes to Cover letters may be addressed to Kayla Kessinger, Cabinet SecretaryCHIEF MARKETING OFFICER-WV DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM-KANAWHA CO.POSITION DETAILSThe West Virginia Department of Tourism is accepting applications for the Chief Marketing Officer position. Under the general supervision of the Cabinet Secretary, this position will oversee multiple marketing teams within the department, serving a vital role in promoting the state's tourism initiatives.
SAMPLE DUTIES- Ensure the brand identity is consistent across seasonal campaigns, partnerships and visitor-facing materials.
- Collaborate with the marketing agency of record and guide creative direction, style, tone and standards for all design, photography, video and experiential assets.
- Serve as Brand Leader overseeing and reviewing all ads for the department and state parks. Oversee seasonal campaigns to increase brand awareness, visitation, and engagement.
- Supervise content development across multiple media platforms.
- Oversee the Public Relations, Marketing & Advertising, Design & Creative, and Engagement & Events Teams; manage workflow and processes while overseeing and collaborating with the data systems and the web development team.
- Manage relationships with contracted print, promotional and apparel vendors, ensuring quality, consistency and timely delivery.
- Compile and review reports, attend all weekly status meetings and provide direction on trends and audience data to inform brand positioning and creative strategy.
- Prepares weekly reports for the secretary and deputy secretary.
- Collaborate with marketing, public relations, outdoor recreation and administration teams to support internal department and statewide tourism goals.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES- Excellent communication, leadership and project-management skills.
- Strong portfolio demonstrating brand development and creative work.
- Experience in managing creative teams and external vendors.
- Expertise in visual design, storytelling and campaign strategy.
- Familiarity with destination marketing.
- Ability to handle a fast-paced environment, tight deadlines and be able to balance multiple projects while meeting deadlines.
- Interest in learning new technologies and systems.
This job opportunity is not in the classified service and is not covered under the Administrative Rule of the WV Division of Personnel. This position is located at the Capitol Complex in Charleston, WV and works full-time, regular business hours, Monday through Friday. It has competitive pay and benefits. Remote work is not permitted. Limited travel required.
Minimum QualificationsTraining: A bachelor's or master's degree in design, art, or marketing/communication or a related field.
Experience: Minimum of three years of experience in brand strategy, creative direction or integrated marketing leadership. Project management and supervisory experience required.
Job not in the classified service. See the hiring agency for a description of benefits.
