Overton County’s newly approved local tourism partnership shifting into its next phase, as leaders begin the search for a director to guide the partnership.
Livingston-Overton County Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Zach Stephens said the formation of the partnership marks a major step forward after months of planning and revisions. Stephens said he is currently accepting applications to consider for the director position.
“You know, we are really looking for someone who has an economic development or tourism background so that they can step into this role and really flourish,” Stephens said.
Stephens said the director would be in charge of tourism efforts and the Main Street Program. Stephens said the Tourism Advisory Board, which consists of representation from each partner, will be handling the hiring process.
“Main Street is its own 501c3, so they would have the daily responsibility of ensuring that organization’s financial stability and also carrying out the program of work for Main Street as well as on the tourism side, you know, building initially the relationships at local and state level and then carrying out the program of work that the Tourism Advisory Board will come up with,” Stephens said. “You know, being that day-to-day person who is, you know, collecting content and marketing our community, ensuring that Livixingston and Overton County is known across the state of Tennessee to bring more visitors here.”
The partnership is made up of the Chamber of Commerce, the Main Street Program, the city of Livingston, and Overton County.
“We have had a number of applicants, but, you know, we’re interested in talking to a wide array and diverse group just to see who all is interested and who all might be able to best carry out the program of work for this role,” Stephens said.
Stephens said the application period currently does not have a deadline. Stephens said while the board wants to hire a director soon, they also want to make sure they hire the right candidate for the job.