WHY IT RATES: Simon has been lauded for his strategic vision, innovative mind and deep industry expertise.—Patrick Clarke, TravelPulse Senior Editor
Ed Simon has been selected as the Executive Vice President and Chief Sales Officer for Visit Florida Keys & Key West. With more than three decades of expertise in travel and tourism and a deep and powerful network of industry relationships, Simon is poised to further position the Florida Keys & Key West as a premier global travel destination.
As Executive Vice President and Chief Sales Officer, Simon will drive the strategic direction of both sales and business development efforts, with a keen focus on leisure sales, group meetings, events, and long-term partnerships — all to benefit the Florida Keys community.
Simon’s extensive background in leading sales initiatives and motivating teams includes roles as Executive Vice President for Visit Lauderdale (the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau) where he led the sales, sports business development, and destination services divisions. His efforts played a pivotal role in growing the nationwide sales team, preparing them for the expansion of the Broward County Convention Center. In recognition of his contributions, he was named the 2019 South Florida Hospitality Sales & Marketing Professional of the Year by the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI).
Simon also served as Vice President of Sales for Destination Hotels, and Regional Vice President of Sales & Marketing with Remington Hotels. He began his career with Associated Luxury Hotels, where he spent 17 years building a stellar reputation in the industry. In 2016, Simon launched the Association Meeting Buyer’s Collective, an innovative cooperative marketplace serving associations and their hotel partners. It’s this spirit of innovation and ingenuity that makes him the ideal candidate for this pivotal role.
“Ed’s strategic vision, innovative mind and deep industry expertise will be instrumental as we amplify our sales initiatives and broaden our reach in key global markets,” said Kara Franker, President and CEO for Visit Florida Keys. “His track record of driving growth and leading high-performing teams speaks for itself, and we feel extremely fortunate to welcome him."
Simon earned his Bachelor of Science in Hotel, Restaurant & Institutional Management from Penn State University, which led him to begin his hospitality journey in food and beverage with Hyatt Hotels. He has been a dedicated member and leader in several industry associations, including American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA), Meeting Planners International (MPI), and the Association Management Company (AMC) Institute.
SOURCE: The Florida Keys & Key West press release.
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