Burress Named Anaheim/Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau's New President

December 25, 2012

The Anaheim/Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau’s Board of Directors has named Jay Burress the new president of the bureau, replacing long-time industry veteran Charles Ahlers.

“We are confident that Anaheim and Orange County will move forward under Burress’ leadership as a major leisure and convention destination,” said Steve Arnold, AOCVCB Chairman of the Board.

He added, “Our destination and partners will benefit substantially from his expertise, collaborative style and drive to succeed.”


In his new position, Burress will lead the organization and oversee the day-to-day management of all convention, tourism and destination marketing programs, according to bureau officials.

He also will play a key role in Anaheim and Orange County visitor industry business development and future expansion plans for the Anaheim Convention Center.



Burress formerly was president and CEO of Experience Arlington (Convention & Visitors Bureau for Arlington, Texas).

Prior to that, he spent 20 years at the Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau, where he held executive-level positions in both convention sales and tourism sales.

His experience also includes international marketing, management of six international representation offices and management of five regional sales offices.



“The Anaheim/Orange County Visitor and Convention Bureau is admired by many industry colleagues around the world for all it has accomplished throughout the past 50 years in promoting Anaheim and Orange County as a leading destination,” Burress said.

He added, “I am honored to have been selected to lead this excellent organization, and I fully intend to continue their tradition of success. Having been directly involved at many levels in destination marketing and convention business for more than 20 years, I am confident we can blend our collective talents and experience and continue to keep Anaheim and Orange County in the forefront of the industry as a leading leisure and business destination.”


Burress will take office Feb. 11, replacing Ahlers, who announced his retirement in February of this year, after 20 years with the bureau. Ahlers will stay on the executive team in a transitional role until June 2013.

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