B-N visitors bureau starting search for new CEO

Posted on October 29, 2024

*A new executive director/CEO is expected to be appointed by early 2025. (Photo courtesy WMBD-TV)*

BLOOMINGTON – The Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, also known as Visit BN, has started a search for a new president/CEO.

The new CEO will lead Visit BN in its mission to promote local events and highlight Bloomington Normal as a tourism destination. They will work with the rest of the board to provide strategies and enrich the area through arts, sports and recreation.

In August, former president Crystal Howard, announced she would resign at the end of the month. She had served as Visit BN CEO for 20 years.

Marty Hickman, the former head of the Illinois High School Association, is currently serving as the temporary executive director.

Visit BN expects its new president to advance their goal through marketing and attracting visitors to strengthen the local economy.

“Our community has a long-standing commitment to growing the visitor economy and recognizes the essential role of destination marketing organizations in supporting economic growth and community enrichment,” said the Board of Directors. “With Bloomington-Normal’s unique assets and attractions, the incoming President/CEO has an unparalleled opportunity to elevate our brand and shape our community’s future.”

Visit BN has partnered with executive search firm Winner Partners to help with its search. The submission deadline is Nov. 18.

A new executive director is expected to be appointed by early 2025.

More information about Visit BN is available here.

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