I am Jennifer L. Harrison, a marketing and communications leader with experience driving growth in tourism, hospitality, economic development and stakeholder engagement. I excel at creating innovative campaigns, forging strategic partnerships, and making data-driven decisions that boost brand awareness and economic activity. I lead teams with a collaborative, creative approach and am passionate about community development and regional vitality. I build strong media relationships, develop compelling content, and translate complex goals into actionable programs that deliver measurable results for destinations and organizations.

Jennifer L. Harrison

I am Jennifer L. Harrison, a marketing and communications leader with experience driving growth in tourism, hospitality, economic development and stakeholder engagement. I excel at creating innovative campaigns, forging strategic partnerships, and making data-driven decisions that boost brand awareness and economic activity. I lead teams with a collaborative, creative approach and am passionate about community development and regional vitality. I build strong media relationships, develop compelling content, and translate complex goals into actionable programs that deliver measurable results for destinations and organizations.

Available to hire

I am Jennifer L. Harrison, a marketing and communications leader with experience driving growth in tourism, hospitality, economic development and stakeholder engagement. I excel at creating innovative campaigns, forging strategic partnerships, and making data-driven decisions that boost brand awareness and economic activity.
I lead teams with a collaborative, creative approach and am passionate about community development and regional vitality. I build strong media relationships, develop compelling content, and translate complex goals into actionable programs that deliver measurable results for destinations and organizations.

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Experience Level

Expert

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Vice President, Marketing & Communications at Santa Maria Valley Chamber & Visitors
November 1, 2023 - February 1, 2026
Develop and implement strategic marketing plans aligned with the Chamber’s mission to increase brand awareness and member engagement. Oversee communications across digital platforms, including social media, website content, email campaigns, and PR initiatives. Lead the Santa Maria Style Barbecue Association development to promote the region’s culinary heritage. Supervise marketing staff to ensure alignment of branding and messaging. Foster media relationships to maximize exposure through press releases, advertising, and tourism marketing.
Director, Marketing & Communications / Tourism Director at Santa Maria Valley Chamber & Visitors Bureau
August 1, 2015 - November 1, 2023
Spearheaded the renewal of the Tourism Marketing District and enhanced visitor engagement strategies. Led innovative campaigns, including the Stimulus Promotion, which gained national and international attention. Launched the Santa Maria Valley Wine Trolley, a widely successful tourism initiative. Developed and managed marketing programs to increase visitor engagement and economic activity. Oversaw the production and distribution of visitor guides, maps, brochures, and travel itineraries. Built strategic alliances with Visit California, CalTravel, and other regional tourism organizations. Led marketing efforts for group sales, attracting sports tournaments, meetings, and special events. Strengthened relationships with regional tourism entities and media partners.
Event & Special Projects Manager at Santa Maria Valley Chamber & Visitors Bureau
August 1, 2014 - August 1, 2015
Planned and executed major Chamber events, trade shows, and tourism promotions. Developed event-related marketing materials and negotiated vendor contracts. Managed event logistics, registration, and sponsorships.
Convention Services Manager at Santa Maria Valley Chamber & Visitors Bureau
November 1, 2006 - August 1, 2014
Attended trade shows and travel expos to promote Santa Maria Valley as a tourism destination. Coordinated logistics for tour operators, meeting planners, and special event organizers. Designed and implemented new marketing collateral and advertising campaigns.
Visitor Bureau Services Coordinator at Santa Maria Valley Chamber & Visitors Bureau
February 1, 2006 - November 1, 2006
Served as first point of contact for visitors, providing information and resources. Assisted in designing and distributing new tourism brochures and marketing materials. Organized and coordinated the Tourism Month Luncheon and other promotional events.
Senior Purchasing Assistant at Derrel's Mini Storage, Fresno, CA
July 1, 2002 - January 1, 2006
Managed purchasing functions, including vendor relations, invoicing, and inventory control. Assisted accounts payable in resolving discrepancies and processed invoices efficiently. Conducted price comparisons among vendors to maximize cost savings.

Education

Journalism, Business & Marketing at City College / University of Phoenix – San Diego, CA
January 11, 2030 - February 13, 2026
Business Management & Marketing Courses at Allan Hancock Jr. College – Santa Maria, CA
January 11, 2030 - February 13, 2026
Diploma at Arroyo Grande High School – Arroyo Grande, CA
January 11, 2030 - February 13, 2026

Qualifications

Western Association of Chamber Executives Academy
January 1, 2024 - February 13, 2026
Pacific Coast Business Times Top 40 Under 40
January 1, 2018 - February 13, 2026
Santa Maria Valley Leadership Alumni
January 1, 2015 - February 13, 2026

Industry Experience

Travel & Hospitality, Media & Entertainment, Professional Services