Carson Valley Tourism Director Vandermade leaves a more than 30-year tourism legacy
Submitted by Jeff Munson on Mon, 12/25/2023 - 1:34pm
Jan Vandermade announced his departure from the Carson Valley Visitors Authority effective Dec. 15, 2023. Vandermade began his tourism career in the ski industry – a role that suited him well, as those who know him will attest.
That one step built upon others where he has shared his passion for tourism and economic development for more than 30 years, most recently serving as Executive Director for the Carson Valley Visitors Authority, a role he had since July 2016. There he led the development of the vision, research and marketing planning for the destination brand, Visit Carson Valley.
“Under Jan’s leadership, the Carson Valley Visitors Authority truly evolved into a welcoming Visit Carson Valley brand,” said Matt Carter, board chair and director of operations for Carson Valley Inn. “From day one he put research and data first, wanting to know more about our visitors, why they choose to visit and how we can use that information to reach new visitors. He worked tirelessly to develop partnerships and collaborations that could amplify what we are doing. He’s left it better than he found it and, on behalf of the board, I would like to personally thank Jan for his hard work and conscientious diligence during his tenure. His efforts have given us a solid foundation for the organization to move forward. We wish Jan all the best.”
Among his numerous contributions to the industry, Vandermade has committed his time and tourism knowledge to Visit Carson Valley, the Reno-Tahoe Territory, Douglas County through the Economic Vitality efforts and numerous other positions and roles in the northern Nevada area.
“Time flies when you're in the midst of such tremendous opportunity and future potential for the destination,” said Vandermade. “I highly value the marketing and creative process and being able to further develop the Carson Valley brand. For example, the Legends of the Valley integrated marketing campaign has been central to where the tourism efforts are today. Stories, imagery and captured moments have served the destination well in communicating what makes Carson Valley such a special place. It’s truly been an honor to be a part of so many incredible initiatives focused on driving tourism and to see it flourish over the last seven-plus years. However, it’s time to pass the baton and let others shape the future of the Valley. Under the leadership of the board, the current team has the passion, talent and commitment to take our tourism efforts to the next level. I look forward to seeing what’s next for Visit Carson Valley and my own career path.”
The Carson Valley Visitors Authority Board of Directors will be announcing the process for selecting and hiring the next executive director for the organization.
For more information about the organization, visit online at VisitCarsonValley.org.
