Visit Pensacola committee picks CEO

Press release: The Visit Pensacola search committee has recommended Pamela Johnson as the next president/ CEO of the organization to the Visit Pensacola Board of Directors. Following the recommendation, the board of directors approved to move forward with a formal offer to Johnson and will work through negotiations.

“We’ve had some incredible candidates through this entire process, and I want to thank SearchWide Global and the Visit Pensacola Search Committee for doing such a standup job. Both Pamela Johnson and Darien Shaefer were both viable candidates that would lead to a vibrant and successful destination,” Visit Pensacola Search Committee Chairman DC. Reeves said. “We know the role the tourism industry plays in Escambia County and we believe upon many recommendations that Pamela will provide great leadership and service in this industry.”

Pamela Johnson has worked at the Lee County Convention and Visitor Bureau in Fort Myers for 25 years, most recently serving as the deputy director beginning in 2014. Johnson also served as the interim director and deputy director of Lee County Economic Development.

“On behalf of the Visit Pensacola board of directors, we’re looking forward to getting to know Ms. Johnson. We feel confident in the due process done by the search committee and look forward to her leadership and vision,” Board Chairman Sterling Gilliam said. “I’d be remiss if I didn’t thank current Interim President Jack Brown for his dedication and hard work to the organization. We expect a smooth transition and know that the future of Visit Pensacola is in good hands.”