RICKEY THIGPEN
4348 Cypress Drive Jackson
Summary
Dynamic destination marketing executive with extensive leadership in tourism and economic development. Spearheaded the execution of a comprehensive five-year strategic plan, enhancing tourism growth and stakeholder partnerships. Expertise in driving economic impact through innovative marketing initiatives and community engagement.
Overview
39
39
years of professional experience
Work History
President & Chief Operating Officer
VISIT JACKSON
Jackson
01.2019 - Current
- Provides executive leadership for the organization responsible for promoting Jackson as a premier destination for meetings, conventions, tourism, and special events while generating significant economic impact for the region.
- Led the organization through legislative reauthorization, strengthening governance and long-term sustainability.
- Directed development and execution of a comprehensive five-year strategic plan.
- Cultivated strategic partnerships with government officials, tourism stakeholders, and community leaders to enhance collaborative initiatives.
- Led and developed a professional staff of 19-25 employees, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
- Expanded destination marketing initiatives, increasing visitation and economic impact.
- Spearheaded signature tourism events and industry programming, ensuring fiscal stewardship and maximizing community engagement.
- Led the official marketing organization for Jackson, promoting its tourism initiatives.
Executive Vice President
VISIT JACKSON
Jackson
01.2003 - 01.2019
- Championed Jackson's tourism through strategic leadership in destination marketing efforts.
- Led development and execution of signature tourism events and promotional initiatives.
- Directed organizational initiatives, enhancing community engagement, special events, and government relations.
- Coordinated external communications and community engagement, fostering stronger community ties.
- Conducted research and strategic analysis supporting destination marketing strategies.
Director of Finance & Administration
VISIT JACKSON
Jackson
01.1990 - 01.2003
- Oversaw administrative operations encompassing finance, human resources, procurement, and facility management to ensure organizational effectiveness.
- Managed budgeting, forecasting, payroll, accounts payable, and financial compliance for $3M+ operations.
- Led staff development, evaluations, and HR policy implementation.
- Served as liaison for legal, contractual, and operational matters, facilitating communication and resolution between stakeholders.
- Supported Jackson's leadership and marketing initiatives to elevate the city's visibility and community engagement.
Manager of Information Systems/Data Processing Manager
VISIT JACKSON
Jackson
01.1987 - 01.1990
- Managed system operations, delivered technology training, and ensured effective database management within sales department.
- Supported accounts payable processes to maintain financial accuracy and efficiency.
- Promoted Jackson as a travel destination, enhancing the city's visibility and tourism appeal.
Education
Doctor of Philosophy - Organizational Leadership
THE CHICAGO SCHOOL PROFESSIONAL PSYCHOLOGY
Chicago, IL12-2021
Masters of Science - Leadership
BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY
Jackson, MS08-2012
Bachelors of Science - Computer Science/Business
MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY
Itta Bena, MS07-1987
Diploma - Honor Roll Student
JIM HILL HIGH SCHOOL
Jackson, MS01-1983
Skills
- Strategic planning
- Data analysis
- Operations management
- Risk mitigation
- Project leadership
- Data analysis
- Stakeholder engagement
- Change management
- Team development
- Destination marketing
- Operations management
Affiliations
- Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
- Life Member of the Mississippi Valley State University National Alumni Association, Jackson, MS Chapter
- 100 Black Men of Jackson, Inc.
- Leadership Jackson Alumni Association
- Mississippi Tourism Association
- Downtown Jackson Partners, 2019-Present
- U.S. Travel Association
- Destination International
- Capital Area Tourism Association
- Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership
- Rotary International
- Cade Chapel M.B. Church
Of Note
- MISSISSIPPI TOURISM ASSOCIATION - University of Southern Mississippi, Mississippi Certified Tourism Professional, 2007, Political Action Board of Directors, Chair, 2018-2020
- DESTINATION MARKETING ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL - Washington, DC, Certified, Finance & Administration Professional, 1997
Professional Accomplishments
- Led the agency through advocacy and legislative reauthorization process(s).
- Strengthened stakeholder relationships and confidence, executing aggressive tactical programming.
- Led the agency through a 5-Year Strategic Planning process.
- Managed, trained, and motivated a 19-25 member staff in the areas of information technology, public relations, special projects, community awareness, social media through Tourism Industry best practices, group and corporate-setting training and one-on-one coaching sessions.
- Initiated creative and cost-effective incentive-based and morale-boosting programs that increase employee productivity.
- Principal in the development of the agency's employee evaluation procedure and protocol.
- Principal management team member responsible for the production and development of the agency's marketing and strategic plan.
- Utilize social intelligence and other strategic and personal skill sets to create and cultivate external agency relationships.
- Produces signature industry events while maintaining a sound fiscal environment and budget.
- Initiated and realized positive development and sponsorship activity.
- Saved fiscal resources by initiating in-house promotions, creative and conceptual advertising campaigns, and collateral marketing resources.
- Speaker's Bureau member and participant.
- Principal in the development of a regional tourism coalition to enhance the economic vitality of Central Mississippi.
- Continued work to strengthen the internal and external culture of the organization.
Core Leadership Competencies
- Strategic Planning & Organizational Leadership
- Destination Marketing & Tourism Development
- Economic Impact Generation
- Stakeholder & Government Relations
- Marketing Strategy & Brand Positioning
- Staff Leadership & Talent Development
- Public Speaking & Industry Advocacy
- Budget & Financial Management
- Event & Convention Development
- Research & Data Analysis
- Organizational Development & Culture Building
Timeline
President & Chief Operating Officer
VISIT JACKSON
01.2019 - Current
Executive Vice President
VISIT JACKSON
01.2003 - 01.2019
Director of Finance & Administration
VISIT JACKSON
01.1990 - 01.2003
Manager of Information Systems/Data Processing Manager
VISIT JACKSON
01.1987 - 01.1990
Doctor of Philosophy - Organizational Leadership
THE CHICAGO SCHOOL PROFESSIONAL PSYCHOLOGY
Masters of Science - Leadership
BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY
Bachelors of Science - Computer Science/Business
MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY
Diploma - Honor Roll Student
JIM HILL HIGH SCHOOL