EXECUTIVE DEPARTENT & OPERATIONS TEAM

Initiative 1: Working with the Board of Governors, plan, implement and oversee the current and future programs and services of Explore Charleston.

These departments serve as the coordinating centers for Explore Charleston. Long-range strategic planning and leadership are at the core, however, execution of cross-departmenal initiatives come into play in day-to-day oversight and management. Production of the Program of Work and the Annual Report are examples of the needed 30,000 foot view, while nailing down details of the audit and tax return reflect the importance of “getting the details right”. These teams must “keep an eye on the ball” while juggling many of them!

Coordinating regular meetings of the Board of Governors, ensuring accurate and regular financial reporting, as well as weekly communication to this oversight group are important functions. Ensuring regular communication with hospitality and tourism businesses is essential to understanding the needs of the industry, as is our response to those needs.

Initiative 2: Build and maintain strong relationships within local, state, and federal governments and agencies.

for grant funding. Connect with other state agencies as needed to advance initiatives. A great example of this is our Workforce Development team building bridges with the SC Department of Employment and Workforce. Other agencies commonly engaged include SC Department of Revenue, SC Treasurer’s Office, and SC Department of Agriculture.

Initiative 3: In collaboration with governments, civic organizations and other entities, assess opportunities and address issues affecting livability, sustainability and responsible economic development.

Initiative 4: Ensure that funding is in place for initiatives across Explore Charleston. Monitor and provide appropriate resources that are needed for departments across Explore Charleston in order to address the mission of the organization.

These departments must ensure that the organization and each of its team members has what is needed to fulfill the mission of Explore Charleston. This includes, and it not limited to, office space and equipment, utilities, technology services, insurance and supplies. Our organization’s business relationships rest with this department to include insurance, legal, banking, audit and tax needs.

The Charleston Visitor Center has been transformed into a high tech, high touch facility for orienting and assisting first-time visitors. This will also establish it as a must seeattraction for repeat visitors thanks to a variety of new exhibits and constantly

Initiative 4: Provide outstanding customer service for people considering a trip to the Charleston area, specifically with regard to planning. Serve as the front line for the Charleston area visitor industry during times of crisis.

One of the most important duties of the Visitor Services department is our Visitor Inquiry Service (VIS). These dedicated operators answer myriad inquiries each

Regularly communicate with our governments, their elected officials and key staff members. Stay abreast of information within each municipality and incorporate visitor elements into Explore Charleston’s activities. Develop and facilitate plans to maintain relationships via a network of staff leaders at Explore Charleston who are charged with this important responsibility. Communicate needs of the hospitality and tourism industry at the local, state and federal levels.

Participate at every level within the South Carolina Departmen of Parks, Recreation & Tourism. Ensure accurate and strong representation of the Charleston area within state promotions and when applying

Hospitality and tourism are vital to the success of the Charleston area, as evidenced by the 51,000 locals residents who support their families through this industry. A successful tourism economy creates ripple effects that make our communities more vibrant, dynamic, diverse and enjoyable places to live, work, and visit. The Charleston region is renowned for both its quality of life and thriving, diverse economy. Woven into our work is a deep sense of responsibility to protect what makes this place so special while ensuring the viability of the tourism industry and its far-reaching benefits for our region. Explore Charleston champions economic diversification and firmly believes it creates a more resilient community. Growth and preservation are not mutually exclusive, and balance is paramount. In partnership with various stakeholders, we will continue to engage in efforts to promote tourism management, enhance quality of life, protect sense of place, and support cultural and environmental sustainability.

The Finance Team prepares, manages and oversees all financial operations including an annual outside audit and tax reporting. A talented team of individuals manages Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable for healthy cash flows so that funds are available when needed for programming.

Initiative 5: Nurture and grow our number one resource, our team of dedicated staff members.Explore Charleston’s Human Resources Team is the center of our organization. There is no question that our staff members are our greatest attribute and our culture celebrates and honors their contributions. The health of our team members, their long-term financial stability, and time with family are all essential and therefore insurance, 401(k) and planned leave are all part of our compensation package. Education is valued; taking advantage of professional development opportunites is encouraged and leads to growth for individuals. The average length of service for Explore Charleston employees is currently 12.6 years! This speaks to the commitment our team members have to our mission and it also speaks to the commitment we have to our staff.