Press Releases

Richard Geiger to Step Down as Buffalo Niagara CVB President/CEO as of May 31, 2009

Board to Name Interim CEO and Lead Effort to Find Permanent Replacement

BUFFALO, NY, May 29, 2009 –The Board of Directors of the Buffalo Niagara Convention & Visitors Bureau has announced they have agreed to a separation of service with Richard Geiger, President and CEO of the organization, effective May 31, 2009.

“Rich has made a significant contribution to Erie County’s hospitality industry and the greater Buffalo community,” said Jennifer Parker, Buffalo Niagara CVB Board Chair. “We will miss his leadership, his professionalism and his commitment to our mission. He leaves with our thanks for a job well done and our best wishes for success in his future endeavors.”

The board will name an interim CEO shortly. A national search for a permanent replacement for Mr. Geiger will be conducted under the leadership of the Board Chair, Ms. Parker.

“I look forward to working with our Search Committee and the entire board to identify a candidate of the highest professional caliber,” Ms. Parker said. “I have every confidence that we will identify a candidate who has achieved excellence in his or her pursuits.”

Mr. Geiger joined the Buffalo Niagara CVB in 1995 after serving as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the Orlando CVB. His tenure with the Buffalo Niagara CVB was highlighted by a significant increase in convention bookings, the successful solicitation and hosting of amateur athletic events such as NCAA Basketball, NCAA Frozen Four, Empire State Games, three successfully implemented long-range Strategic Plans and an emphasis on cultural and heritage tourism. Mr. Geiger is a longtime member of Destination Marketing Association International, the New York State Governor’s Tourism Advisory Council and the Professional Convention Management Association. He was named Executive of the Year by the Public Relations Society of America Buffalo Niagara Chapter and one of Western New York’s 100 Most Influential People by Business First.

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Media Contacts:

Ed Healy
Buffalo Niagara Convention & Visitors Bureau
716-852-0511, x236
healy@buffalocvb.org

Doug Sitler
Buffalo Niagara Convention & Visitors Bureau
716-852-0511, x252
sitler@buffalocvb.org