Industry veteran Sandi Talley announced Jan. 15 that she will retire from her position as Senior Vice President of Business Development and Membership at Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI) on Feb. 8.
“I’m ready to take a break after working in senior positions for, let’s just say, lots of years,” says Talley. “I plan to do whatever strikes my fancy for the next few months. Later, perhaps I’ll do something part time. For now, I’m ready to be really irresponsible for awhile!”
“I want to thank Sandi for her terrific contribution over the last five and a half years,” states Michael D. Gehrisch, President & CEO of DMAI. “She has truly helped grow DMAI in so many ways, including completely redeveloping DMAI’s membership structure, creating an expansive alliance partnership program, and spearheading DMAI’s international growth. She’s done a great job, and leaves behind her a very capable team.”
Talley joined DMAI (then IACVB) as Vice President of Membership & Business Development in 2004 after a 20 year career as Regional Vice President of Sales with the San Diego CVB Washington, DC satellite office. Promoted to DMAI’s Senior Vice President of Business Development & Membership in 2006, DMAI’s revenues nearly doubled through increased membership, sponsorships, and alliances.
“I am truly most proud of establishing and growing DMAI’s Allied membership category, leading DMAI’s global expansion initiative, and contributing to the association’s strategic planning,” Talley says.
Throughout her career, Talley has received several industry awards including San Diego’s “Sales Person of the Year,” the former Greater Washington Society of Association Executives’ “Shining Star” award, PCMA Capital Chapter’s “President’s Award.” She was also named a GWSAE’s “Woman in Leadership” in 2002. She has served on various industry boards and is an active member of ASAE.
Talley began her career in hospitality sales at Copper Mountain Resort in Colorado where she was Director of Sales for three years.
Before going into hospitality sales, she had a career in fashion retail, and owned and operated a KOA Kampground in Utah for awhile.
“I haven’t finished reinventing myself,” says Talley. “Stay tuned!”
Karen Gonzales, DMAI’s current Vice President of Membership and industry veteran has been promoted and will assume the responsibilities of Senior Vice President of Membership & Business Development.
