Former SeaWorld executive Jim Dean has been named as interim president and CEO of Visit St. Pete/Clearwater.
Dean replaces David Downing who resigned in January to take a role in the private sector.
Dean has more than three decades’ experience in hospitality and tourism and most recently held the position of president and corporate senior vice president of SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica and Discovery Cove.
He previously served as president of SeaWorld’s Busch Gardens Tampa Bay & Adventure Island from 2010-2017.
"Jim’s extensive experience and collaborative approach will be an asset to the department during this transition," said Pinellas County Administrator Barry Burton.
A nationwide search will commence in the coming weeks to find a permanent CEO.
In the meantime, Dean will be responsible for all the agency’s daily operations.
