Visit Milwaukee has announced several changes to its Board of Directors, welcoming new members whose leadership spans hospitality, economic development, transportation, brewing and local government while recognizing the dedicated service of several outgoing board members.
"Our Board of Directors reflects the collaborative spirit that makes Milwaukee such a remarkable destination," said Kristine Hillmer, chair of the Visit Milwaukee Board of Directors and president and CEO of the Wisconsin Restaurant Association. "We're grateful to our outgoing board members for sharing their time, expertise and passion to help strengthen Milwaukee's visitor economy. At the same time, we're excited to welcome a talented new group of leaders whose diverse perspectives and commitment to our community will help guide Visit Milwaukee through its next chapter of growth."
Visit Milwaukee extends its sincere appreciation to the following board members whose terms have concluded:
- Mark Flaherty, managing partner, Jackson Street Holdings
- Kevin Newell, founder & CEO, Royal Capital
- Brian Dranzik, director, Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport
- Jeremy Lucas, policy director, Milwaukee County
- Alderman Russell Stamper, Milwaukee Common Council
- Jason Wilke, former Wauwatosa Common Council president
Joining the Board of Directors are:
New Members at Large
- Benjamin Risseeuw, Market General Manager, White Lodging
- Alison Hanrahan, Community Affairs Manager, Molson Coors
Milwaukee County Executive Appointments
- Celia Benton, Director, Milwaukee County Department of Economic Development
- Ruben Salas, Vice President and Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Milwaukee County Transit System
Milwaukee Mayoral Appointment
- Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Milwaukee Common Council
City of Wauwatosa Appointment
- Joseph Phillips, President, Wauwatosa Common Council
"Our board brings together leaders from across Milwaukee's hospitality, business and public sectors who understand that a strong visitor economy benefits our entire community," said Peggy Williams-Smith, president and CEO of Visit Milwaukee. "We're thrilled to welcome these outstanding leaders and look forward to the expertise and fresh perspectives they'll bring as we continue to build on Milwaukee's incredible momentum."
Visit Milwaukee's Board of Directors provides strategic direction and governance for the organization, helping advance initiatives that attract visitors, conventions, sporting events and meetings while strengthening Milwaukee's reputation as a premier destination.