Fred Dixon Returns to Lead New York City Tourism + Conventions
Fred Dixon has been reappointed President and CEO of New York City Tourism + Conventions. His tenure begins on 1 December 2026, marking a return to the organisation he previously led.
Leadership Appointment for NYC Tourism
New York City Tourism + Conventions has named Fred Dixon as its new President and CEO. The appointment, effective from 1 December 2026, sees Dixon return to the city’s official tourism marketing body. He previously served as head of the organisation between 2014 and 2024. Most recently, Dixon held the position of President and CEO at Brand USA.
This national destination marketing organisation focuses on increasing international tourism to the United States. New York City Tourism + Conventions’ board conducted a thorough process to identify its next leader. Charles Flateman, the board chairman, confirmed Dixon’s selection in a statement.
His return aims to strengthen New York City’s position within the global travel market. Dixon will also work to drive economic opportunity across the city’s five boroughs.
Addressing Visitor Shortfalls
Dixon’s appointment occurs as New York City navigates a decline in international visitors. This trend places significant pressure on the city’s hotels. Vijay Dandapani, President and CEO of the Hotel Association of New York City (HANYC), highlighted these challenges. He reported that visitation to New York was 1.3 million people lower in 2025 compared to 2019 figures.
Projections for 2026 initially suggested a 300,000 visitor shortfall against 2019 levels. However, revised forecasts now indicate a deficit closer to 1 million visitors. This reduction persists despite a minor increase from the FIFA World Cup.
HANYC also noted that an escalating trade dispute between the United States and Canada has recently worsened New York’s international tourism losses. New York City Tourism + Conventions projects 66.3 million total visitors for 2026. This represents a 2% increase year-on-year but remains below the 66.6 million visitors recorded in 2019.
Industry Challenges and Strategic Focus
Dixon’s mandate includes promoting New York as a premier destination for leisure travel, meetings, conventions, and events. He will also focus on strengthening partnerships across the city’s tourism sector. This includes close collaboration with the hotel industry. New York hotels face broader economic headwinds beyond visitor numbers.
HANYC identifies several factors, including travel restrictions, slowed revenue growth, persistent inflation, and rising operating costs. Additionally, immigration crackdowns contribute to the challenging environment. Vijay Dandapani expressed the Hotel Association of New York City’s satisfaction with Dixon’s reappointment. However, he also stressed the considerable work ahead.
Dandapani noted that the city’s hotels are far from recovering to their 2019 performance levels. Dixon’s past experience promoting New York City, combined with his recent national and global perspective from Brand USA, will be valuable.
Outlook and Industry Expectations
The Hotel Association of New York City has outlined its priorities following Dixon’s return. The association advocates for a reduction in New York’s hotel occupancy tax. Alternatively, it suggests implementing periodic occupancy tax holidays. These measures aim to stimulate group and meetings business.
New York City Tourism + Conventions stated it will release more details regarding Dixon’s specific plans once he assumes his role later this year. Until then, Charles Flateman will oversee the organisation. He will ensure a smooth transition alongside the executive leadership team.
This leadership change demonstrates the city’s proactive approach to revitalising its tourism sector. Industry stakeholders will monitor Dixon’s strategies for addressing visitor shortfalls and supporting the struggling hotel market in the coming months.
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