Michael Martin named president and CEO of the Tempe Tourism Office

The Tempe Tourism Office recently announced Michael Martin has been named the organization’s president and CEO. Martin, who has served as interim president and CEO for the last eight months, succeeds Brian McCartin who retired from the position in September 2021 after nearly four years at the organization.

“Michael brings a wealth of experience to his role and a proven commitment to successfully promoting Tempe as a preferred destination for meetings, events and tourism,” said Kate Borders, Tempe Tourism Office Board Chair and president of Downtown Tempe Authority. “He has an in-depth knowledge of the industry and the local market, which will continue to benefit our community as we experience consistent growth in a post-pandemic economy.”

During Martin’s 29 years at the Tempe Tourism Office, his responsibilities have included group sales, travel trade networking, special event management, sponsorship recruitment, consumer marketing strategies, and acquiring grant funding.

As president and CEO, Martin is responsible for setting the organization’s strategic goals, working with the 21-member board of directors, managing relationships with Tempe City Council and City staff, developing the annual budget, negotiating contracts, and overseeing a staff of 11 full-time employees.

Arizona Science Center names Anita Theisen as new chair

Arizona Science Center Board of Trustees appointed AnitaTheisen as the new Chair of the Board of Trustees for a two year term beginning July 1, 2022.
An expert in architecture and exhibit curation, Theisen is also an owner of Theisen Automotive Group and has been Vice Chair of Arizona Science Center’s Board since 2020.
“Anita is a true thought partner in helping the Science Center best serve its audiences and communities,” said Guy Labine, The Hazel A. Hare President and CEO of Arizona Science Center. “I greatly value her knowledge of what it takes to develop high-quality guest experiences as well as her deep understanding of Arizona culture and history. We are in excellent hands with her as Board Chair.”
In addition to sitting on the Board of Trustees for Arizona Science Center, Theisen serves on the Board of the Jones-Gordon School Foundation. She has previously served on the Boards of the International School of Arizona and Homeward Bound, and the Directors Circle of Phoenix Childrens Hospital.
“Serving as a Board Member allows me to combine my love and appreciation for cultural institutions with the business acumen I’ve gained over the years,” said Theisen. “These last two years as Vice Chair during a pandemic have been rewarding and challenging and I look forward to partnering with the Board and Science Center team to expand our work.”
Additional Board appointments include:
Robert Miller, Vice Chair
Mary Martuscelli, Past Chair
Doug Young, Treasurer
B.J. Freeman, Secretary

 

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