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Visit Cincy Appoints Interim CEO Amidst Leadership Transition

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  Published in Business and Finance on Tuesday, February 3rd 2026 at 0:28 GMT by Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
      Locales: Ohio, UNITED STATES

Cincinnati, OH - February 3rd, 2026 - Visit Cincy, the official destination marketing organization for Hamilton County, Ohio, announced today the appointment of Julie Kirkpatrick as its interim CEO. Kirkpatrick assumes the role following the departure of John Pepper III, a well-respected figure in Cincinnati's tourism and hospitality sectors. The transition comes at a critical time for the region, as it continues to build momentum in attracting both leisure and business travelers.

Kirkpatrick is already a familiar face within the organization, currently serving as Visit Cincy's Vice President of Marketing and Communications. This internal appointment signals a commitment to stability and continuity during the search for a permanent leader. Michelle Lunkenheimer, Visit Cincy board chair, expressed confidence in Kirkpatrick's ability to steer the organization through this period, stating, "We are excited to welcome Julie Kirkpatrick as our interim CEO. Her expertise and leadership will be invaluable as we navigate this transition period."

A Region Focused on Growth: The Interplay of Tourism and Economic Development

The appointment underscores the vital role Visit Cincy plays in the broader economic ecosystem of the Greater Cincinnati USA region. While focused on attracting visitors, its work is intrinsically linked to the efforts of organizations like MeetNKY, the regional economic development organization. MeetNKY, operating across Hamilton County and neighboring areas in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, concentrates on attracting and retaining businesses and talent, thereby bolstering the region's overall economic health.

The synergy between these two organizations is increasingly important. A thriving tourism sector not only generates immediate revenue through visitor spending but also enhances the region's appeal as a place to live, work, and invest. A vibrant cultural landscape, diverse attractions, and a welcoming atmosphere - all hallmarks of a successful tourism destination - contribute significantly to a region's quality of life and its ability to attract a skilled workforce. Furthermore, increased tourism necessitates infrastructure improvements (hotels, restaurants, transportation) which create jobs and stimulate further economic activity.

Kirkpatrick's Background and the Future of Destination Marketing

Julie Kirkpatrick brings over six years of experience within Visit Cincy to her interim role. Her background in marketing and communications, honed both within the organization and through prior roles with local businesses, positions her well to understand the challenges and opportunities facing the destination. In today's rapidly evolving travel landscape, destination marketing organizations are no longer simply promoting attractions; they are crafting compelling narratives, leveraging data analytics to personalize experiences, and embracing digital technologies to reach target audiences.

Destination marketing is increasingly reliant on sophisticated digital strategies. Social media marketing, content creation, search engine optimization (SEO), and pay-per-click advertising are now essential tools for attracting visitors. Furthermore, the rise of experiential travel demands that destinations offer unique and immersive experiences that go beyond traditional sightseeing.

Visit Cincy's current initiatives include showcasing the region's diverse offerings, from its thriving arts scene and world-class museums to its burgeoning culinary landscape and outdoor recreational opportunities. Efforts are also underway to attract more meetings and conventions, which generate significant economic impact. The organization is actively promoting Cincinnati as a family-friendly destination, highlighting attractions like the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Kings Island amusement park, and the various parks and green spaces throughout Hamilton County.

Challenges and Opportunities for Cincinnati's Tourism Sector

Despite its strengths, Cincinnati's tourism sector faces several challenges. Competition from other destinations is fierce, and maintaining a consistent brand identity is crucial. The ongoing need to adapt to changing traveler preferences and embrace new technologies requires continuous investment and innovation. The availability of skilled labor within the hospitality industry also remains a concern.

However, opportunities abound. Cincinnati's revitalization efforts are attracting attention and generating positive buzz. The city's rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and growing reputation as a culinary hotspot are proving to be strong draws for visitors. The planned development of new hotels and attractions will further enhance the region's appeal.

As Visit Cincy navigates this leadership transition, Kirkpatrick's experience and vision will be instrumental in ensuring the organization remains focused on its core mission: to promote Hamilton County as a premier destination and drive economic growth through tourism.