New York City Tourism + Conventions is bringing back a very familiar face, former president and CEO Fred Dixon, to serve in its top spot after Julie Coker’s exit at the end of August. Dixon, who left the organization in 2024 to become president and CEO of Brand USA, will return to his former role beginning Dec. 1.
“Returning to lead NYC Tourism + Conventions is an extraordinary honor and responsibility,” Dixon says. “My time at Brand USA gave me a broader perspective on the global travel marketplace and what’s required to be competitive for international travelers. I return to New York with that experience, along with a renewed appreciation for the strength of this city and the extraordinary people and businesses that make its visitor economy so vital. I look forward to working with our members, partners, and city leadership to grow visitation, strengthen our global position, and ensure tourism continues to deliver for all five boroughs.” Brand USA is the official destination marketing organization for the U.S., headquartered in Washington, D.C.
Dixon’s appointment follows a search led by the New York City Tourism + Conventions board search committee and supported by New York City-based global leadership advisory firm Russell Reynolds Associates.
“New York City’s tourism industry is a powerful engine of our economy, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and businesses across all five boroughs,” New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani says. “At a time when we must continue to compete for visitors from around the country and around the world, experienced leadership at NYC Tourism + Conventions is essential. Fred Dixon brings deep expertise, leading one of the city’s most important economic sectors. I look forward to working with him, our tourism industry, and communities across the five boroughs to ensure New York City remains a destination where visitors want to come and New Yorkers can benefit from the economic opportunity they bring.”
Board chair Charles Flateman and the convention and visitors bureau’s executive team will assume oversight of the organization until Dixon takes charge in December.
