Vice President, Marketing and Communications

Alexandria, Virginia, Position Summary: The Vice President of Marketing and Communications is an integral role within ASTA, responsible for overseeing and executing the organization’s marketing and communications strategies, specifically as they relate to public relations and consumer advocacy and outreach. This position serves as one of ASTA’s chief spokespersons—developing and managing effective member marketing, media relationships, handling public affairs as well as branding efforts and strategic messaging. The Vice President, Marketing and Communications will also play a pivotal role in amplifying ASTA’s mission, enhancing its public image, and ensuring consistent messaging across all communications channels to effectively reach trade professionals, policymakers, and the consumer traveling public. This position will report directly to ASTA’s President & CEO and currently will have two direct reports with several other adjacent supporting staff. About ASTA: The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) is the leading global advocate for travel advisors, the travel industry and the traveling public. Its members represent 80 percent of all travel sold in the United States through the travel agency distribution channel. Together with hundreds of internationally based members, ASTA’s history of industry advocacy traces back to its founding in 1931 when it launched with the mission to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism. Key Responsibilities: Marketing Priorities:

Lead ASTA’s marketing strategy to support membership growth, retention, event participation and non-dues revenue. Develop and oversee integrated marketing campaigns for ASTA events, programs, education, products and member benefits. Own event registration goals from a marketing perspective, developing and executing targeted campaigns in partnership with the Business Development team to drive registrations and revenue. Direct digital marketing across email, websites, social media and paid advertising, ensuring consistent branding and clear calls to action. Oversee other team priorities, campaign calendars and creative development, coordinating with other departments to support their organizational goals.

Media Relations & Public Affairs:

Serve as a primary spokesperson for ASTA, responding to media inquiries and proactively positioning the organization in key industry discussions. Develop and execute media outreach strategies to enhance ASTA’s presence in both consumer and trade media. Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with journalists, editors, and influencers in travel, business, and policy sectors. Monitor industry trends and media coverage, providing rapid response and proactive commentary on relevant issues impacting ASTA and its members. Draft and distribute press releases, media statements, op-eds, and thought leadership pieces on behalf of ASTA as a whole as well as on behalf of ASTA leadership.

Strategic Communications & Brand Management:

Develop and oversee the implementation of ASTA’s communications strategy to reinforce its position as the voice of the travel advisor industry. Ensure consistency in messaging across all platforms, aligning with ASTA’s mission, advocacy efforts, and membership value propositions. Oversee content development for ASTA.org, newsletters, social media and any other avenues, ensuring alignment with broader marketing and communications goals. Manage crisis communications, including developing response strategies and guiding executive leadership on media engagement during critical issues. Work closely with the other ASTA departments to craft compelling messaging for campaigns, events, and any other initiatives.

Executive & Member Communications:

Provide communications support to ASTA’s executive team, including speechwriting, media training, and presentation development. Develop messaging frameworks and talking points for ASTA leadership, ensuring a unified voice on key issues. Support ASTA members by providing resources and guidance on effective communications and public relations strategies within their businesses.

Digital & Social Media Strategy:

Along with the Director of Marketing, oversee ASTA’s digital communications strategy, ensuring effective engagement across website content, email campaigns, and social media platforms. Collaborate with internal teams to optimize content marketing efforts that drive awareness, advocacy, and member engagement. Assist with analyzing digital performance metrics and adjust strategies to maximize outreach and impact.

Stakeholder Engagement & Events:

Represent ASTA at industry conferences, media events, and speaking engagements to advocate for travel advisors and the industry. Collaborate with external partners, industry organizations, and government agencies to strengthen ASTA’s visibility and influence. Support ASTA’s event communications, including the promotion of major conferences, webinars, and member meetings. Qualifications & Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field and/or commensurate experience and definitive skills. 8+ years of experience in strategic communications, public relations, or media relations, preferably within the travel, nonprofit, or trade association sectors. Demonstrated experience serving as an organizational spokesperson and engaging with media. Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives for diverse audiences. Expertise in crisis communications, brand management, and digital marketing strategies. Proven ability to develop and execute communications strategies that drive awareness and engagement.

Compensation & Benefits:

Salary $125,000 annually, commensurate with experience. Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off. Opportunities for professional development and industry networking. Flexible work arrangements (hybrid or remote considered).

To Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and relevant writing samples to resumes@asta.org with " Vice President, Marketing and Communications " in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Join ASTA and help shape the future of the travel industry!