Destination Development Coordinator

The Destination Development Coordinator is responsible for advancing tourism growth throughout Sarnia-Lambton by supporting tourism businesses, developing visitor experiences, fostering industry partnerships, and implementing destination development initiatives aligned with Tourism Sarnia-Lambton's strategic plan. The coordinator works directly with tourism operators, municipalities, and community stakeholders to enhance visitor experiences, identify tourism development opportunities, strengthen industry capacity, and support sustainable tourism growth across Lambton County. The position serves as a primary liaison between Tourism Sarnia-Lambton and regional tourism stakeholders while assisting with destination planning, product development, industry education, research, and partnership initiatives. Primary Responsibilities 1. Tourism Product & Experience Development • Identify opportunities for new tourism products, experiences, itineraries, and packages throughout Lambton County. • Work with tourism operators to enhance existing visitor experiences. • Assist businesses in developing tourism-ready products and services. • Support the creation and expansion of themed tourism trails, experiences, and destination initiatives. • Identify tourism development gaps and opportunities through industry consultation. • Support implementation of Tourism Sarnia-Lambton's destination development priorities. 2. Industry Relations & Stakeholder Engagement • Maintain strong working relationships with tourism operators, municipalities, chambers of commerce, BIAs, economic development offices, and community organizations. • Conduct regular site visits with tourism businesses and attractions. • Serve as a resource for tourism operators regarding industry trends, best practices, and funding opportunities. • Coordinate tourism industry networking opportunities and stakeholder engagement sessions. • Support municipal tourism initiatives and collaborative projects. 3. Industry Development & Capacity Building • Coordinate tourism workshops, training sessions, and educational opportunities. • Assist operators in improving visitor readiness and service excellence. • Promote industry best practices and emerging tourism trends. • Support workforce development initiatives within the tourism sector. • Encourage industry participation in regional and provincial tourism programs. 4. Destination Research & Strategic Planning • Monitor tourism trends, visitor preferences, and industry developments. • Conduct tourism asset inventories and gap analyses. • Assist with tourism research projects and destination development studies. • Prepare reports and recommendations related to tourism growth opportunities. • Support implementation of organizational strategic priorities. 5. Familiarization Tours & Industry Programs • Plan and coordinate familiarization (FAM) tours for tourism stakeholders, media, travel trade representatives, and industry partners. • Develop itineraries that showcase the region's tourism assets and experiences. • Coordinate industry showcases and tourism awareness initiatives.