Destination Strategy & Research Specialist

at  TOPOSOPHY

WHO WE ARE & WHAT WE DO

TOPOSOPHY is a leading placemaking and marketing agency that specializes in transforming destinations through its team of skilled professionals and global network of experts. With over a decade of experience in destination development, management, and marketing, we offer a range of strategy and research solutions tailored to each destination’s unique needs. Our team of 20 members of staff have undertaken projects in 36+ countries across 4 continents, working closely with leading organizations such as EBRD, UNDP, ETC and UNWTO, destination authorities and multinational brands. We pride ourselves on our ability to create meaningful and lasting change for destinations around the world, through our holistic and integrated approach, which takes into account the needs and aspirations of both visitors and locals. With a focus on city marketing and placemaking, we help destinations stand out and thrive, constantly pushing the boundaries and staying ahead of the curve. We strive to deliver measurable results and make a positive impact on the lives of those who experience our place making and marketing initiatives.

KEY SKILLS:

• Destination Management Insight: Deep knowledge in managing and promoting destinations, with an emphasis on integrating sustainable and eco-friendly practices.
• Destination Marketing Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of destination marketing organizations (DMOs) and the crucial role they play in elevating destinations.
• DMO Collaboration: Proven track record of successful partnerships with DMOs, focusing on strategy creation and implementation.
• Strategy Leadership: Demonstrated experience in overseeing and executing tourism and destination strategy projects from concept to completion.
• Effective Communication: Excellent verbal and written skills, ensuring clear conveyance of ideas and strategies to teams, clients, and stakeholders.
• Networking Prowess: Ability to establish, nurture, and leverage relationships with diverse stakeholders in the tourism sector, from local businesses to governmental bodies.
• Leadership Excellence: Demonstrated capability in guiding, mentoring, and motivating teams towards achieving project objectives.
• Global Perspective: Experience in managing or participating in projects across multiple countries, showcasing adaptability to various cultures and market dynamics.
• Travel Enthusiast: A genuine passion for travel, underpinned by a desire to contribute positively to destinations and their growth.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Masters or PhD degree in marketing, tourism, planning and development or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in tourism and destination marketing and/or strategy development.
• Strong understanding of the tourism industry, including market trends and best practices.
• Membership(s) of international organizations related to the fields described above
• Excellent written and spoken English skills are essential for this role.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the development of tourism and destination strategy projects for clients, including research, analysis, and recommendations for improving the visitor experience and driving tourism growth.
• Collaborate with clients to understand their specific needs and goals, and develop customised strategies that align with those objectives.
• Identify and analyze market trends and industry best practices, and incorporate this knowledge into strategy development.
• Work with the agency’s creative team to develop compelling marketing materials and campaigns that promote the destination and attract visitors.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders in the tourism industry, including destination marketing organizations, local businesses, and government entities.
• Oversee project execution, including budget management and coordination of internal and external resources.
• Provide regular updates and reports to clients on project progress and results.
• Continuously monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the strategies, and make adjustments as needed to ensure success.

We are currently offering two types of positions for our Senior Project Managers | Destination Strategy & Research role:

• Full-time, salaried position with benefits such as personal laptop, private health insurance, and performance bonus (subject to negotiation).
• Contract-based, flat rate for delivering specific services