Julie Coker Named CEO of NYC Tourism + Conventions

Julie Coker, president and CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority, will step down from her role on Dec. 6 to become president and CEO of New York City Tourism + Conventions on Dec. 9.

“Leading the San Diego Tourism Authority has been an incredible journey, and I'm immensely proud of what our team has accomplished,” said Coker. “I’m eager to bring my passion for the tourism industry to New York City, and look forward to building upon the remarkable work of the talented team in place, further enhancing the global appeal of one of the world’s most iconic cities.”

Coker joined the SDTA in June 2020, leading the organization's sales and marketing efforts through the pandemic and into recovery. Under her leadership, San Diego consistently has ranked as a top performing U.S. destination, finishing third in the nation in hotel occupancy at 73.5 percent in 2023. The city's groups and convention business fully rebounded that year, surpassing 2019 levels. Additionally, the SDTA set organizational records with $14.3 billion in visitor spending. The convention and visitors bureau maintained a member-retention rate above 90 percent during her tenure. The SDTA's Board of Directors will form a search committee to identify and select a new CEO.

Bringing her expertise to the Big Apple

“Julie is incredibly accomplished, and a respected leader across the travel and hospitality sectors, making her an excellent choice to serve as president and CEO,” said Brand USA president and CEO Fred Dixon, who formerly held the head position at NYCTC. “She will undoubtedly bring great vision and care to the role, and I am excited to continue working with her in this new capacity as she stewards NYC Tourism + Conventions and New York City’s tourism economy in the years ahead.”

“Julie is a respected industry expert and deeply experienced leader who will steward both NYC Tourism + Conventions and New York City’s $74 billion tourism economy,” said Charles Flateman, executive vice president of the Shubert Organization and board chair of the NYCTC. “We are thrilled to have Julie on board.”

Leaving a positive impact on San Diego

"Julie has been an outstanding leader and advocate for our organization, city and tourism industry," said SDTA's board chair Shawn Dixon, who is COO of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. "Her guidance, grace and passion helped San Diego's tourism community come together to regain business faster than many in the market, positioning us for success during the pandemic's recovery efforts. Under her leadership, we laid a strong foundation for growth, rebuilding travel confidence, attracting visitors and supporting local businesses. Julie has been a true champion of SDTA's work and a wonderful ambassador of San Diego's tourism industry. We will miss her energy, humor and dedication, and wish her success at New York City Tourism + Conventions."

As a leader in the industry, Coker has championed diversity, equity and inclusion throughout her career. Her commitment led to major SDTA initiatives, including the launch of the award-winning Tourism Accelerator program, and the appointment of the organization's first director of DEI and community engagement. The Tourism Accelerator, spearheaded by Coker in 2021, helps connect businesses run by women, veterans, people of color, people with disabilities and members of the LGBTQ+ community with the local tourism industry.

Continuing a distinguished career of service

Coker holds several executive board positions, serving on the U.S. Department of Commerce's Travel and Tourism Advisory Board, the U.S. Travel Association, Visit California and San Diego-based organizations. Her leadership has garnered numerous accolades, including the Pioneer Award from the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals.

In 2016, she made history as the first African American female president and CEO to lead a major convention and visitors bureau in the top 50 U.S. markets while at the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau. Coker previously spent more than 20 years with Hyatt Hotels, where she held general manager positions for properties in Philadelphia, Chicago, and Oakbrook, Ill.