Julie Coker takes over as CEO of NYC Tourism + Conventions

MIAMI.- The board of directors of NYC Tourism + Conventions announced that Julie Coker will be the new president and executive director of the organization. The expert will take office on December 9.

In a statement, Charles Flateman, executive vice president of The Shubert Organization and president of the board of directors of NYC Tourism + Conventions, expressed his enthusiasm for Coker’s appointment, ensuring that he will take the organization to a new level.

“Julie is a recognized industry expert and experienced leader who will guide both NYC Tourism + Conventions and New York City’s $74 billion tourism economy,” he said.

Likewise, the executive thanked Nancy Mammana for her dedication to NYC Tourism + Conventions.

“I want to thank Nancy Mammana, our Chief Marketing Officer, for also stepping into the role of Interim CEO for the past four months, paving the way for a smooth transition.”

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Coker has held executive positions in the sectors of tourism and hospitality for more than three decades; and currently serves as president and CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA), where she directs the organization’s efforts to position San Diego as a premier destination for meetings, conventions, international travelers and vacation visitors.

And it has been his leadership that led San Diego to consolidate itself as one of the most prominent destinations in the United States, reaching third place nationally in hotel occupancy rate, with 73.5% in 2023.

“During his tenure, the city’s group and convention business surpassed 2019 levels, and the tourism industry generated $14.3 billion in visitor spending. Under Coker’s leadership of SDTA, tourism jobs returned to pre-pandemic levels, with more than 200,000 people employed. San Diego County’s transient occupancy tax generated more than $360 million for regional services SDTA sales and marketing programs achieved a return on investment. 30 to 1, the highest in the organization’s history, and the retention rate among SDTA members reached 93%,” reports a press release.

In January 2023, the executive was appointed to the Travel and Tourism Advisory Board of the United States Department of Commerce, joining 31 national tourism leaders to advise the Secretary of Commerce on travel priorities.

Additionally, he serves on the executive boards of the US Travel Association and Visit California, as well as the boards of Meeting Professionals International, the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation, the San Diego Lodging Association and Sharp HealthCare.

Following his appointment, New York City Mayor Eric Adams said Coker will be an important addition to the city’s continued success.

“Our best days are yet to come, and with Julie Coker at the helm, I know our city will reach new heights and once again break tourism records. With a proven track record of transforming the country’s major cities into tourist hubs, Julie is ready to show you to the world what makes our city special. Julie understands that when our tourism economy thrives, the entire city thrives, generating thousands of jobs and billions of dollars. I am excited to welcome Julie and watch as she continues to bring every corner of the world. planet to the capital of the world: New York City.”