Kelly Defebo has been promoted to the position of Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Visit Sarasota County (VSC). In this role, she oversees all marketing, public relations, and special projects for the destination.
Additionally, she maintains oversight of international marketing programs and works closely with Sarasota Bradenton International Airport on marketing and programming.
Defebo has been with VSC since 2008, previously holding positions such as Director of Sales and Marketing, Director of Sales, and Meeting & Group Sales Manager. She has successfully generated significant Tourist Development Tax revenue and increased economic impact for Sarasota County. Under her leadership, VSC has been recognized with the 2023 and 2020 ConventionSouth Reader’s Choice Award for excellence in service and professionalism in the meetings industry.
Kelly, a highly regarded employee at VSC and experienced professional in sales and hospitality, has played a crucial role in shaping our sales department’s direction, policies, and goals, stated Erin Duggan, VSC’s President and CEO. It is a natural progression for her to take on this new position, where she will continue to drive our marketing and PR planning forward.
Defebo, a University of Florida graduate with a bachelor’s degree in advertising, holds a Marketing Communications diploma from the International Advertising Association and the esteemed Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation from the Convention Industry Council, the primary certification in the meetings industry. She serves as a board member for the St. Armands Circle and holds memberships in multiple industry associations.
