Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau – Executive Director Job Description
Located in Cadillac, Michigan
High Five Tourism Solutions is honored to partner with the Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau (CAVB) Board of Directors in the search for the organization’s next Executive Director, a dynamic leader who will guide the Bureau into its next chapter of growth and success.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive of the Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau (CAVB), the official Destination Marketing Organization for the greater Cadillac, Michigan, region. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director provides overall leadership, strategy, and operational management to advance the Bureau’s mission of driving tourism, economic impact, and community vitality.
Key responsibilities include developing and executing marketing and promotional programs that increase visitation, extend the length of stay, and maximize visitor spending at local businesses. The Executive Director plays a central role in program development, community engagement, and strategic partnerships with local businesses, lodging partners, government agencies, and state and regional tourism organizations.
This position oversees personnel, financial management, and fundraising initiatives, including grant development, cooperative marketing, and festival collaborations that generate overnight travel. The Executive Director also serves as the primary spokesperson for tourism in the Cadillac area, maintains strong relationships with stakeholders at every level, and ensures alignment with the Bureau’s strategic and marketing plans while advancing the long-term goals of the organization.
ABOUT THE CADILLAC AREA VISITORS BUREAU
The Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau (CAVB) is a 501(c) (6) destination marketing organization. The organization provides leadership in promoting the Cadillac region as a premier destination for overnight travel in Northern Michigan. Their mission is to highlight the economic and cultural value of visitors, while ensuring every guest enjoys a high-quality experience. They champion sustainable tourism, protect and celebrate the area’s natural environment, and showcase the arts, culture, and history that define our community. As a trusted partner locally, regionally, and statewide, the CAVB works to strengthen the tourism economy, drive overnight travel, support business success, and enhance the quality of life for residents of the Cadillac area. Visit CadillacMichigan.com to learn more about the area.
Location:
The Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau Welcome Center and business office are in downtown Cadillac, Michigan. The Executive Director must reside in, or be willing to relocate to, Wexford County or the surrounding area. This is a full-time, in-office position and is not eligible for remote work.
Dates of Service:
The Executive Director position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. Application reviews will begin the week of October 13, 2025, with priority given to candidates who submit materials by October 10, 2025. The anticipated start date will be determined in consultation with the selected candidate.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
Serves as the primary liaison between CAVB and key partners at the local, county, state, and federal levels, as well as allied organizations, foundations, and institutions. Represents CAVB at virtual and in-person meetings, serves on select committees, and develops new partnerships while maintaining and strengthening existing relationships.
OPERATIONS AND CULTURE
Works collaboratively with the Board of Directors and staff to develop and implement operational plans that align with the organization’s vision, mission, and strategic objectives. Ensures that all activities align with the CAVB’s strategic and marketing plans and meet the expectations of partners and stakeholders. Oversees day-to-day operations, contract obligations, and resource allocation to maximize efficiency and program effectiveness.
In collaboration with the volunteer Board of Directors, the Executive Director leads the development and execution of policies, procedures, and best practices that support a high-performing organization.
ABOUT THE CAVB STAFF
As the organization’s leader, the Executive Director cultivates a workplace culture that encourages creativity in marketing and promotional efforts, supports excellent visitor interactions, and invests in professional growth through training, leadership development, and mentorship.
CAVB staff includes two full-time positions (Administrative & Marketing Assistant and Marketing Manager), seasonal part-time interns, and third-party contractors. The Executive Director oversees all aspects of human resources, including job descriptions, hiring, onboarding, training, and performance management. This includes conducting annual reviews, recommending professional development, and managing disciplinary actions, separations, and exit interviews.
FISCAL STRATEGY
Works in close collaboration with the Executive Committee, including the Board President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. Develops and manages the organizational budget based on room tax revenue, cooperative programs, and available grants. Ensures sound bookkeeping practices (QuickBooks Online), accurate financial reporting, and compliance with legislation and tax requirements. Provides the Board with regular updates on revenue, expenditures, and financial health.
Identifies and pursues funding opportunities from state, corporate, foundation, and government sources. Develops grant proposals and budgets, and oversees compliance with grant requirements. Tracks and manages grant awards, reports, deliverables, communications, and contracts in collaboration with staff.
BOARD MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT
Supports all activities of the Board of Directors in partnership with the Administrative & Marketing Assistant. Responsibilities include recruitment, scheduling, preparing agendas and meeting materials, and reviewing meeting minutes. Ensures board members have a clear understanding of CAVB’s mission, vision, and programs. Communicates transparently with the Board on internal and external issues, and when necessary, serves as a spokesperson on behalf of the Board and its officers.
PROGRAMMING AND EVENTS
Oversees the planning, implementation, and evaluation of CAVB’s marketing, promotional programs, and events. Ensures all initiatives align with the organization’s mission, advance the CAVB brand, and strengthen awareness among target audiences.
OTHER DUTIES
Addresses emerging priorities and challenges that impact the success of the CAVB. Recognizes that nonprofit leadership often requires flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to take on unforeseen responsibilities as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, hospitality management, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
Senior-level nonprofit management experience, including direct work with a board of directors.
Demonstrated success in marketing and advertising across multiple channels.
Proven fiscal management skills, including budgeting and basic grant administration.
Proficiency in QuickBooks and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Must be a U.S. citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience in a destination marketing organization or visitors bureau.
Advanced grant writing and grant management experience.
Proficiency with Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, and other marketing platforms.
Knowledge of tourism marketing, public relations, outdoor recreation development, and industry best practices and trends.
Event planning and management experience, including volunteer supervision.
Strong track record of fostering collaborative partnerships across local, state, and federal levels.
What the CAVB Board is Looking For:
Passionate about the mission and vision of the Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau.
Skilled at building strong relationships and collaborative partnerships with stakeholders at every level.
Highly organized and able to juggle multiple priorities while delivering high-quality results.
Committed to fostering a positive workplace culture that values teamwork, trust, and creativity.
A strategic thinker with the ability to analyze challenges, develop innovative solutions, and make sound decisions.
Driven by goals and experienced in putting effective systems and processes in place to achieve them.
COMPENSATION
The salary will be dependent on experience. This is a full-time, exempt position. In addition to salary, CAVB offers a competitive benefits package, which includes participation in a health insurance plan, dental insurance, a Paid Time-off package, and other benefits.
STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION
The Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to excellence through diversity. Employment offers are made based on qualifications and without regard to race, sex, national or ethnic origin, disability, or age.
TO APPLY
High Five Tourism Solutions is the official recruiting partner for the CAVB Board of Directors. Please submit information, including resume and cover letter, with the subject line “CAVB Executive Director” to cavb@highfivetourism.com. Please do not contact any member of the Board or CAVB staff regarding this position.
DEADLINE TO APPLY
Applicant reviews will take place the week of October 13, 2025. Those interested in being considered in the first round should provide their application materials by October 10, 2023. The anticipated start date will be discussed with the selected candidate. Interviews will be conducted via Zoom, phone, and/or in person.
Work Location: In person - Cadillac, Michigan
