Julie Corker, the president and CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA), is set to take on a pivotal role in New York City, where she will focus on enhancing tourism and conference initiatives through 2024. Corker’s leadership in San Diego since 2020 has been marked by remarkable achievements, propelling the city’s tourism sector to new heights.
Under Corker’s guidance, San Diego experienced an unprecedented surge in tourism, with direct visitor spending reaching $14.28 billion and attracting 302.3 million visitors in 2023. These milestones reflect her strategic vision in promoting both domestic and international destinations.
Corker has also championed diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout her tenure, spearheading initiatives like the Travel Accelerator Program. This program provides mentorship, education, and networking opportunities for underrepresented groups, including women, people of color, veterans, and LGBTQ+ business owners. Her commitment to these principles has positioned San Diego as a leader in inclusive tourism, setting a benchmark for other cities to follow.
Beyond her role at SDTA, Corker has made significant contributions to national tourism discussions through her involvement with influential organizations such as the American Travel Association and the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Committee of the Department of Commerce. Her previous experience includes leadership at the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau, where she managed high-profile events, including the 2016 Democratic National Convention, which had a substantial economic impact.
In her new position in New York City, Corker aims to leverage her extensive expertise in destination marketing and her dedication to community engagement to elevate the city’s global tourism profile.