Fred Dixon to Head Brand USA, NYC Tourism Opens Search for New CEO

Fred Dixon, the current president and CEO of NYC Tourism + Conventions, is leaving his role to take over as president and CEO of Brand USA, the official DMO of the U.S.

Dixon will start at Brand USA in July, staying on at NYC Tourism + Conventions through June 4. He will take over for Chris Thompson, the longtime president and CEO of Brand USA who announced last year that he would retire in May 2024.

NYC Tourism + Conventions has named Nancy Mammana, the current CMO for the organization who helped lead its rebrand last year, as its interim CEO as it starts the process of selecting a new CEO.

Dixon got his start at NYC Tourism Conventions when it was still NYC & Company in 2005. He first came on as vice president of tourism and then became CEO in 2014. During his tenure, international visitation to New York City more than doubled to over 13 million travelers, with the city now represented in 17 overseas markets and active in nearly 40 locations globally.  

He also helped lead the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic, organizing the Coalition for NYC Hospitality and Tourism Recovery, which brought together industry leaders across the city.

In a statement, NYC Tourism + Conventions Board Chair and Shubert Organization Executive Vice President Charles Flateman called the move “bittersweet” for New York City.

“For nearly twenty years, Fred Dixon has been synonymous with New York City tourism, the industry’s continued success, and its impact on New York City. His leadership and expertise created a template for excellence in destination marketing and the team of talented individuals who make the work possible. We are thrilled beyond measure for him in this new role and know that he will always be a champion for NYC.”