YARRA RANGES REGIONAL MARKETING LTD trading as POSITION DESCRIPTION Title: CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Reporting to: CHAIR, YARRA RANGES TOURISM BOARD OUR ORGANISATION Yarra Ranges Tourism is a regional tourism organisation that exists to partner with local business, government and allied associations to market the Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges brand strengths of food and wine, agribusiness, culture, nature based and general tourism to domestic and international markets, resulting in economic prosperity, business growth, employment creation and sustainable community development for the region. For further information go to www.yarrarangestourism.com.au Our Vision is that: The Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges Region will be Victoria’s premier visitor destination for high value wine, food and indulgent short breaks complemented by nature based, cultural and village experiences. Our Mission is that: Yarra Ranges Tourism will provide leadership of tourism marketing, development and management for the region, characterised by effective industry and community engagement and high visitor satisfaction. POSITION OBJECTIVE The CEO has responsibility for the overall management of the operation of the organisation and for supporting and promoting strategic development and growth. The position works closely and is accountable to the Board. The role provides a link between the Board and its Corporate Structure of sub-committees, working groups, staff, key organisations in the region, funding partners and key stakeholders. Yarra Ranges Tourism - Position Description CEO PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES The Chief Executive Officer is the principal officer, strategically leading and managing the operations of the organisation to provide services to the key stakeholders in accordance with the organisation’s Vision and Mission, statutory requirements and strategic objectives. Specifically, the position is required to: § § § § § § § § Carry the vision Initiate, develop and implement sound business practices Development and implement strategic plans and strategies with the Board supported by sustainable financial management Be a leader within the local tourism industry Ensure effective partnerships are established and maintained Lead and develop a motivated professional team dedicated to excellence and performance Identify and manage risks Provide quality advice and good governance to the Board KEY RESPONSIBILITY AREAS Strategic Development Develop and propose Business and Marketing Plans for Board approval. Develop an evidence base for decision making by the Board. Work with the Board to develop overall strategies for the organisation. Provide leadership and strategic direction to the organisation ensuring that high levels of performance output are achieved. Marketing Provide insightful strategic analysis and advice on customer segments. Define and analyse the characteristics of potential customers. Identify stakeholders and market opportunities domestically, nationally and internationally. Promote and sell the region and its products. Lead the digital infrastructure and content platforms of the organisation. 2 Yarra Ranges Tourism - Position Description CEO Lead business case development for campaigns, initiatives and product launches. Access grants/funds for high profile initiatives through creative and professional submissions. Access media opportunities. Lead the development of a suitable digital platform to ensure the marketing reach to the consumer. This will include functions such as integrated bookings, consumer reviews, itinerary planners and product segment plans. Develop an effective social media strategy to target specific consumer segments. Development of an effective Search Engine Optimisation strategy. Position Yarra Ranges Tourism as an industry leader through innovative product development and digital promotion. Leadership Lead and manage people from a strategic leadership role to optimise productivity and create a professional, safe, equitable and rewarding workplace. Provide big picture thinking to staff and industry. Lead a culture of continuous improvement for the organisation and industry. Foster trust and transparency. Show personal courage and resilience. Translate strategy into practical actions and outcomes. Product Development Creativity in the development of products within the region. Through identification and facilitation, build on and expand the region’s business opportunities. Establish mechanisms for reporting to stakeholders on outcomes, including consumer research on market segments and visitor behavior. 3 Yarra Ranges Tourism - Position Description CEO Implement collaboration opportunities with key businesses. Ensure all licensing requirements are in place where applicable. Identify and develop relationships in emerging product areas for the region. Finance and Governance Work with the Board in establishing budgets, and report to the board on both financial and non-financial indicators. Manage the organisation within the established budgets and maintain appropriate records. Source available grant allocations and financial assistance from relevant authorities. Meet financial and other monitoring requirements of funding bodies. Evaluate programmes to ensure effective and efficient operations. Develop opportunities and present fully evaluated business cases to the Board. Play a critical role in driving return on investment and achieving a sustainable organisation. Lead the development of appropriate Board and organisational policies and procedures to support a culture of strong governance and continuous improvement. Monitor and mitigate risk for the organisaiton. Relationships Form a positive, collaborative and proactive working relationship with the Board, in particular the Chairperson. Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders across the region, including the organisations funding partners of Yarra Ranges Council and Tourism Vicitoria. Forge relationships within product segments that are competitive strengths of the region to promote domestically and internationally. Represent Yarra Ranges Tourism on advisory committees, or other relevant functions/meetings conducted by industry bodies. 4 Yarra Ranges Tourism - Position Description CEO SELECTION CRITERIA CRITERIA STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES • • • • • • • MARKETING • • • • • • • LEADERSHIP • • • • • • Visionary outlook Big Picture thinker Long term focus Total organisation perspective Systems orientated to track achievement of goals Senior management within a complex environment Experience in marketing at a national level Experience in digital innovation and development of marketing initiatives Demonstrated entrepreneurial flair Astute media observer in order to source opportunities Commercial business experience Passion and enthusiasm for the region and its products Experience of the key industry sectors in region including tourism and hospitality Knowledge of the region will be an advantage Influential communication skills Ability to motivate and gain commitment to strategic direction Commitment to the creation of an attractive, efficient, safe, equitable and rewarding workplace Focus on continuous improvement Common sense and consistency in decision making and maturity of judgement A ‘can do attitude’, e.g. able to function operationally and strategically. 5 Yarra Ranges Tourism - Position Description CEO GOVERNANCE & FINANCE • • • • • • • • INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS • • • • • • • • • QUALIFICATIONS PERSONAL Corporate financial management experience and expertise Strong and clear financial reporting skills Understanding of, and commitment to, triple bottom line management Corporate governance experience relating to notfor-profit organisations and Limited by Guarantee company structures in accordance with ASIC. Knowledge of legislative and statutory obligations Policy development and implementation skills Sound track record in managing financial, information to achieve cost effective outcomes within budget and strategic financial parameters. Effective contract management. Positively influence a diverse range of high profile stakeholders Capacity to establish and maintain productive relationships Political savvy Create and sustain a valued public profile Outstanding people skills Sensitivity and diplomacy Strong negotiator and conciliator Presentation and presence (community appeal) An effective problem solver, through innovative solutions. • Tertiary qualifications, likely to be in the areas of business, marketing, governance, hospitality and supported by financial competence and proven experience working at a senior level. • High energy levels, and a proactive approach to identifying and seizing opportunities. The adaptability, flexibility and resilience necessary to enable personal performance and productivity levels to be maintained under pressures. Strength and presence, with strong and persuasive communication skills. • • 6 Yarra Ranges Tourism - Position Description CEO PERFORMANCE INDICATORS AND MEASURES 1. Strategic Planning Focus: Identify, assess and respond appropriately to both the external and internal environment to formulate visionary plans and programs. Indicators: a) Quality strategic initiatives are clearly identified and developed. b) Strategic Plans accurately identify, and give direction to, the future growth and development of the organisation. c) Realistic and focused medium and long-term business plans which are adopted, monitored and reviewed regularly. 2. Marketing Focus: The recognition of the region’s branding, and understanding and involvement of key stakeholders. Indicators: a) b) c) d) e) Promotion and acceptance of Marketing Plan. Mix of marketing opportunities sourced. Creativeness demonstrated within the marketing framework. Feedback from stakeholders on success of campaigns. Role played in driving yield, the level of sales achieved and sustainable profitability. f) Consumer awareness and recognition of the region. 3. Product Development Focus: Developing products that engage the stakeholders and increase market share to the region. Indicators: a) b) c) d) Strategic understanding of associated industries worldwide. Range of products developed and marketed. Positive response to product range. Consumer research showing the region is increasingly seen as a destination. e) Recognition of Brand. 7 Yarra Ranges Tourism - Position Description CEO 4. Leadership Focus: Positioning standing. of the organisation, recognition and Indicators: a) Board is engaged with the direction of proposals put forward. b) Acceptance and recognition of the organisation by stakeholders. c) Right people with right skill mix are recruited. 5. Governance & Finance Focus: Organisation sustainability. Indicators: a) A long-term financial management strategy for the organisation is developed and maintained. b) Confidence of stakeholders through level of investment demonstrated. c) Sound financial management practices are implemented. d) Appropriate and accurate financial reports are provided to the Board, identifying significant variations. e) Policies and procedures are developed and implemented to ensure that the organisation’s objectives are met. f) The organisation’s statutory and financial plans and statements are complete and in place. g) Programs are delivered within budget targets and financial constraints. h) Effective oversight of the Company Secretary functions to support the Board. i) Risk Management policies, procedures and programs are clearly defined and achieved. g) Management of income through the development of a wide range of stakeholder and revenue sources. h) Effective contract management. 6. Relationships Focus: Develop and relationships. maintain useful and sustainable Indicators: 8 Yarra Ranges Tourism - Position Description CEO a) Effective communication between the organisation and all relevant sectors of the community. b) Stakeholder needs and aspirations are identified and responded to in a sensitive and professional manner. c) A co-operative and harmonious climate of trust, confidence and teamwork is established and maintained with stakeholders. d) The Board is kept informed of all significant issues. e) Concise and informative reports are provided to the Board with recommended actions, which clearly identify implications. f) The quality of advice and direction provided to the Board, and the high standard of personal input to Board meetings. g) Board resolutions are accurately implemented. 7. Human Resource Management Focus: Lead and develop staff that are committed to the organisation and the region, competent in their jobs, and achieve job satisfaction. Indicators: a) The vision of the organisation is communicated to, and owned by, staff. b) Quality interpersonal skills and the ability to deal productively with conflict and tension are demonstrated. c) A team approach is demonstrated at all levels, promoting initiative and the acceptance of responsibility through clearly defined delegations. d) Accountability and responsibility is appropriately delegated. e) Equal Employment Opportunity and Occupational Health and Safety legislative requirements are adhered to throughout the organisation. 9