Meet Brittney Hendricks, a dynamic marketing professional whose journey from graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 2010 to becoming the current VP of Marketing & Communications at Oxnard Convention & Visitors Bureau (Visit Oxnard) is nothing short of inspiring. Embarking from Chapman with a keen interest in marketing, Brittney’s career trajectory unfolded with a blend of creativity, strategic thinking, and a strong penchant for relationship building.

Brittney’s Journey into the World of Marketing

Brittney’s initial venture into the professional realm involved five years of technical copywriting, where her proficiency in writing and digital campaign development took center stage. Her unique background in film and television production, coupled with her experience as a professional dancer, instilled in her a hands-on approach to creative production—a quality that sets her apart in the marketing space.

Henricks has worked on websites and developed digital campaigns for brands, and is someone big on taking creative risks that differentiate her organization from its competitors. Additionally, she believes in the power of relationships, saying, “I think the term “networking” is overused and is a bit of a dysphemism for “relationship building,” which has been so important in every step of my career.”

Pivotal Career Moments

In her current role at Visit Oxnard, Brittney spearheads marketing and public relations efforts, managing vendor contracts and all media channels. Her strategic campaigns have not only won prestigious awards but have also earned her recognition as the 2023 Rising Star by the California Travel Association. Brittney’s role extends beyond her immediate responsibilities, as she actively contributes to the industry by serving as the Public Relations Chairperson for the Central Coast Tourism Council and participating in committees with key organizations like Destinations International, Visit California, California Travel Association, and Ventura County Lodging Association.

A pivotal moment in Brittney’s career was the creation of Visit Oxnard’s branded content piece, “A Taco Story.” “It’s the winner of two Telly Awards, an AVA Digital Award, and was a finalist in the U.S. Travel Awards,” says Hendricks. “It started as a concept where we would parody the Kate Upton Carl’s Jr. commercial, but with a taco – and a dude. From there, it really took off.” Brittney and her team worked with social media influencer Wade Holland and Miss California USA 2015/Amazon Prime music host, Natasha Martinez – who is a friend of from their days dancing as Laker Girls, and also a Chapman University alumna.

“If you didn’t know, Oxnard is the summertime home to Dallas Cowboys Training Camp,” Brittney says. “So, another career highlight is getting to marry my former dance career with my current career in creating Oxnard Fan Night, with performances by the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and an appearance by Cowboys Mascot Rowdy.” This past year Brittney and her team celebrated their second annual Oxnard Fan Night and welcomed 5x Super Bowl Champion and Hall of Famer Charles Haley to meet fans and sign autographs.

Most recently, Brittney was also awarded a prestigious CalTravel Rising Star Award for her incredible work with Visit Oxnard.

The Chapman Difference

Reflecting on her Chapman University days, Brittney acknowledges the influence of late Emeritus Professor Dr. Donald Booth and marketing professor Niklas Myrh, Ph.D. Their guidance played a pivotal role in shaping her academic and professional choices. “Niklas Myrh, Ph.D. was my first marketing professor and was influential in why I chose my degree emphasis,” she says. A decision that has definitely paid off.

For students and recent graduates aspiring to follow a similar path, Brittney emphasizes the importance of exploring different industries and attending events that broaden one’s understanding of the field. She encourages seeking networking opportunities, or as she aptly puts it, “relationship building,” as a key aspect of career growth.

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As Brittney continues to make waves in the tourism marketing industry, her journey stands as a testament to the power of creativity, strategic vision, and the ability to forge meaningful connections.

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