Naples tourism agency names new top leader

The Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau has named airport and tourism executive Jay Tusa tourism director.

Tusa was most recently the assistant airport director for strategy and development at Pensacola International Airport, according to a statement. He replaces Paul Beirnes, who ran the tourism agency for two years through last November, when he left for a vice president position with the Amelia Island CVB. 

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Tusa’s appointment is effective March 25. He will lead destination management, strategic planning and stakeholder engagement initiatives to further enhance the region's tourism offerings, the release states. 

"(Jay’s) impressive experience in elevating the visitor experience and management of critical infrastructure and beach enhancement projects will ensure Collier County’s tourism-supported initiatives will continue to drive the economic growth that supports the unique lifestyle that both visitors and residents enjoy in our community," Deputy Collier County Manager Dan Rodriguez says in the statement. 

Prior to the Pensacola airport, Tusa was executive director of Visit South Walton, in the western part of the Panhandle. Other past roles Tusa held include director of marketing for Explore Asheville; corporate director of marketing for St. Joe Hospitality; director of communications and research for Louisiana Office of Tourism; and executive director of River Parishes Tourist Commission.

“With a strong commitment to fostering sustainable growth and building vibrant communities through collaborative efforts with stakeholders, I'm looking forward to elevating our region's tourism landscape and making lasting contributions to our community," Tusa says in the statement.