Clifford “Rip” Rippetoe has been appointed president and CEO of the San Diego Convention Center Corporation following a nationwide search and a unanimous vote by the board of directors. The corporation manages, markets and operates the San Diego Convention Center on behalf of the city of San Diego.
“The San Diego Convention Center is a world-class facility and we are thrilled to welcome Rip Rippetoe as our new leader,” said Rabbi Laurie Coskey, chair of the board of directors. “Rip brings a breadth of industry expertise and skills that will help ensure our continued success for years to come.”
An industry veteran, Rippetoe most recently served as president and CEO of the Kentucky State Fair Board, which manages the Kentucky Exposition Center, Freedom Hall, Broadbent Arena and the Kentucky International Convention Center, all located in Louisville. Rippetoe has also worked for the Las Vegas Convention Center, Cashman Field, the Salt Palace Convention Center, Visit Salt Lake and GES.
“I’m excited to be joining the San Diego Convention Center team. San Diego is a great destination,” said Rippetoe. “I look forward to working with our community and industry partners to create economic impact by hosting world-class conventions, tradeshows and events.”