Garofano leaving Convention & Tourism Bureau
SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. » Todd Garofano is stepping down as Saratoga Convention & Tourism Bureau president, effective April 6, to pursue interests outside the industry.
During his eight years on the job, the organization’s sales have grown almost 125 percent, with more than 98,000 contracted room nights signed in 2017 compared to just over 43,000 in 2010, a news release said.
Also, the bureau serviced over 640 groups last year, an increase of almost 280 percent since 2010 when 167 groups were served. Last year’s group business accounted for nearly 100,000 room nights and an estimated $67.5 million economic impact, the release said.
“We are grateful to have had someone of Todd’s caliber at the helm for such an extended time,” said Cindy Hollowood, bureau chairperson and Holiday Inn general manager. “Not only did he grow our convention business by leaps and bounds, he has a terrific sales team in place to ensure continued prosperity. He is well known and regarded throughout the Northeast in meetings and convention circles and undoubtedly will be a hard act to follow.”
A search committee, charged with identifying a new president, is led by Megan Hennessey, Courtyard by Marriott general manager and a bureau atlarge executive committee member.
The bureau earned national honors during Garofano’s tenure such as the 2013 & 2014 Pinnacle award from Successful Meetings, and the 2012, 2015 and 2016 Gold Service award from Meetings & Conventions.
In addition, Chowderfest, the bureau’s signature event, has grown steadily with nearly 40,000 visitors this past year compared to an estimated 11,000 in 2010. Through many collaborative efforts the bureau helped launch events like Toys for Toga, the Saratoga Frozen Springs Pond Hockey Classic and Saratoga Beer Week under Garofano’s leadership, which have become seasonal economic drivers in the community.
In 2015, Garofano negotiated a management agreement contract with the city of Saratoga Springs for the bureau to take over operations and programs for the Heritage Area Visitor Center. This resulted in improved exhibits and displays, the addition of full- and parttime staff, expanded hours and more programing, a news release said.
A description of the bureau president’s job may be viewed at: https://www. discoversaratoga.org/thebureau/opportunities/.
Applicants should send their cover letter and resume to: jobs@discoversaratoga.org.