NEW YORK CITY TOURISM + CONVENTIONS BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTS NEW MEMBERS

New York City (March 7, 2025) — Charles Flateman, New York City Tourism + Conventions Board Chair, and The Shubert Organization Executive Vice President, today announced the election of eight new board members and three new additions to the organization’s Executive Committee.  The election took place at the New York City Tourism + Conventions board meeting on February 27, 2025, at the Jacob Javits Convention Center.   

New board members elected to a two-year term for 2025:  

• Rafael Abreu, VP, Sales & Marketing, Statue Cruises 

• Matt Brown, VP & Store Director, Saks Fifth Avenue 

• Kristine Galisi, Chief Operating Officer, The Nicotra Group LLC 

• Jason Laks, Chief Executive Officer, The Broadway League 

• Joyce Leveston, Chief Executive Officer, Jacob Javits Convention Center 

• Kenneth Mitchell, Executive Director, Staten Island Zoo 

• Emma Pfohman, Chief Executive Officer, ABNY 

• Bernd Pichler, Area Managing Director, One Hotel Brooklyn Bridge 

Newly elected Executive Committee members elected to a two-year term: 

• EB Kelly, Senior Managing Director, Tishman Speyer  

• Andrew Rigie, Executive Director, NYC Hospitality Alliance 

 Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson will also rotate onto the Executive Committee for a one-year term.   

These individuals join an esteemed group of local business leaders who serve on NYC Tourism’s Board of Directors. Leading with experience, integrity and vision, this group of industry experts helps uphold the organization’s mission to drive New York City’s economy through tourism. A complete list is available at https://www.business.nyctourism.com/about-us/who-we-are/board-of-directors. 

 In 2024, New York City welcomed 64.5 million travelers, generating an estimated economic impact of $79 billion, including more than $51 billion in direct spending by travelers, and supported over 388,000 leisure and hospitality jobs. The City is expecting 67.2 million travelers this year, marking a full tourism recovery. 

About New York City Tourism + Conventions:   
New York City Tourism + Conventions is the official destination marketing organization (DMO) and convention and visitors bureau (CVB) for the five boroughs of New York City. Our mission is to invite the world and energize the City, building equitable, sustainable economic prosperity and community through tourism for the mutual benefit of residents, businesses and visitors. For all there is to do and see in New York City, visit nyctourism.com.