Vice President of Communications

The Hilton Head Island–Bluffton Chamber of Commerce is seeking a Vice President of Communications to lead outward-facing communications for the Chamber and oversee destination public relations and earned media efforts. The Visitor & Convention Bureau is a division of the chamber. This is a hands-on leadership role blending strategy, execution, and team management.

The position reports to the President & CEO and serves as a spokesperson alongside the CEO.

About the Organization

The Hilton Head Island–Bluffton Chamber of Commerce is a three-time National Chamber of the Year and the voice of the business community, representing more than 1,300 member businesses across the Lowcountry. The destination has been named the No. 1 Island in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler for nine consecutive years along with numerous other accolades and “best of” lists.

The Role

This role leads member and community communications, social media, public relations, and crisis communications, while working closely with its PR firm based in New York for destination public relations. The Vice President of Communications remains directly involved in media pitching, interviews, and hosting media events and press visits for both traditional media along with influencers.

This is an in-office role with some travel.

Key Responsibilities

Lead all outward-facing Chamber communications across digital, print, video, and social platforms
Oversee destination earned media strategy, including pitching and media relations
Serve as a spokesperson and conduct broadcast, print, and digital interviews
Oversee social media strategy for a highly engaged Chamber following
Lead development of key communications including the annual report, speeches, talking points, and signature event materials such as State of the Region, the Chamber’s annual gala and others
Host media visits, press trips, podcasts, and other owned-media content
Oversee the Director of Communications and two Visual Content Coordinators
Support crisis communications planning and response
Familiarity with AI tools for content editing, workflow efficiency, and analytics

Qualifications

5–7+ years of experience in communications, public relations, media relations, and destination marketing
Proven track record of securing earned media at the local, regional, and national level
Experience working with broadcast/film crews
Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills with an eye for detail and design
Comfort with public speaking, media interviews, and community and government-facing settings
Experience managing people and external agencies
Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field

Why This Role

This is an opportunity to lead communications for a nationally recognized Chamber and destination with strong visibility and community impact.

Apply by emailing [email protected]. Salary commensurate with experience. Comprehensive benefits package.