ADVERTISEMENT

    Paul Astleford to Retire as CEO of Experience Columbus

    Paul Astleford, president and CEO of Experience Columbus announced his retirement earlier today, which will take effect on December 31, 2012. Astleford has served as the leader of  the Columbus convention and visitors bureau for the past 13 years.

    ADVERTISEMENT

    “Columbus has been one of the most fulfilling and enjoyable chapters in my 43 year career in the hospitality industry,” said Astleford. “I leave feeling a great deal of pride in having been a part of the Columbus leadership team at a time of unprecedented transformation of our community’s collaborative strategic intent and the numerous resulting accomplishments.”

    During Astleford’s tenure, his efforts and accomplishments include overseeing the creation of the Greater Columbus Sports Commission, the creation of the Experience Columbus identity, championing the development of the new Hilton Columbus Downtown Hotel, and other branding and marketing efforts for the City of Columbus.

    “Paul’s visionary leadership of Experience Columbus enabled us to dream big as a community,” said Lisa Hinson, Chairman of the Experience Columbus Board of Directors. “His impact on the growth of the travel and tourism industry for Greater Columbus has been transformational and we’re grateful for his numerous contributions to the economic vitality of our community.”

    A national search process will begin to identify the next president and CEO of Experience Columbus.

    More information can be found online at www.experiencecolumbus.com.

    ADVERTISEMENT

    Subscribe

    More to Explore:

    The Confluence Cast: Downtown with Michael Brown

    We're exploring the evolution of downtown with Michael Brown, who has been a cornerstone in the city's development planning and worked both in and outside city government to cheer on its growth. Columbus Underground editor Walker Evans and Mike delve into the city's challenges and triumphs, the synergy between projects, the balance between iconic and neighborhood-level public art investments, and the concerted efforts to address systemic issues like homelessness and affordable housing. Through anecdotes and insights, they highlight Columbus's young, creative energy and the dynamic urban policies that continue to drive its growth.

    Ken Paul Appointed as Director of Columbus Convention Authority

    The Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority (FCCFA) announced yesterday...

    First Look: Hilton’s New Downtown Tower

    Columbus is now officially home to Ohio's largest hotel...

    Nosh Your Way Through the Columbus-Style Pizza Trail

     Yes, Columbus-style pizza is a thing, so much so...

    Experience Columbus Highlights Black Culture Through CBUS Soul

    Created by Experience Columbus, CBUS Soul is a platform...
    Walker Evans
    Walker Evanshttps://columbusunderground.com
    Walker Evans is the co-founder of Columbus Underground, along with his wife and business partner Anne Evans. Walker has turned local media into a full time career over the past decade and serves on multiple boards and committees throughout the community.
    ADVERTISEMENT