New Position Created to Drive Multi-Day Events, Strategic Partnerships and Overnight Visitation to Surf City USA®
HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. — Visit Huntington Beach (VHB) today announced that Vipe Desai has joined the organization as its new Director of Strategic Alliances and Events. The newly created position is focused on bringing partnerships and events that drive overnight visitation and economic impact to Huntington Beach.
Desai is a well-known leader in the surf, outdoor and coastal economy sectors and currently serves as Executive Director of the Surf Industry Members Association (SIMA), a role he will continue alongside his work with VHB. He brings more than three decades of experience across brand marketing, sporting events and strategic partnerships with global brands.
"Everything I've built through SIMA and the surf industry has prepared me for this opportunity," said Desai. "Huntington Beach is more than a world-famous beach town; it's a cultural and economic powerhouse. I'm excited to help unlock the destination's potential through strategic events, impactful partnerships, and experiences that inspire visitors to come, stay longer, and connect with everything Surf City USA® has to offer. I couldn't be more energized about what we're going to build together."
According to VHB President and CEO John Urdi, the position was strategically created to help Huntington Beach attract more multi-day events and capitalize on growing opportunities at the intersection of destination marketing, sports and events.
"As the tourism landscape continues to evolve, we are going beyond traditional marketing and actively creating compelling reasons for visitors to stay longer and experience more," said Urdi. "Desai’s extensive experience and industry relationships across surf, outdoor, sports and events sectors make him uniquely qualified to help bring world-class events and experiences to Huntington Beach and strengthen its position as a premier beach event destination."
About Visit Huntington Beach
Visit Huntington Beach is the official destination marketing organization of Huntington Beach, California, also known as Surf City USA®. Located along Pacific Coast Highway with convenient access from three airports, Huntington Beach boasts 10 miles of wide-open beaches, endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and a laid-back welcoming community known for its vibrant surfing history and culture, making it the ultimate Southern California destination for travelers from around the world. To learn more about Huntington Beach, visit SurfCityUSA.com.
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