VisitErie, Erie County’s official destination marketing organization, has announced the appointment of Mark Jeanneret as interim president and CEO, effective May 4, 2026, following the retirement of John Oliver, who has led the organization since its inception in 2001.
Jeanneret most recently served as executive director of the Erie Sports Commission, a division of VisitErie. Under his direction, the Erie Sports Commission was recognized by Sports ETA, the trade association for the sport tourism industry in the U.S., as the 2023 Sports Commission of the Year and Event Marketing Campaign of the Year awards. During his time as executive director, the organization hosted or supported more than 675 events, generating $120 million in estimated economic impact for the region to strengthen Erie County’s reputation as a premier sports tourism destination. His leadership has contributed to sustained growth in visitor spending and expanded opportunities for local hospitality and tourism partners.
Before becoming executive director in 2018, Jeanneret served as the Erie Sports Commission’s first events director for five years. During that time, he expanded the organization’s event portfolio from 19 events in 2013 to 59 in 2017 and played a key role in securing major national and international competitions for Erie, including the 2018 Ice Breaker Tournament presented by LECOM and the 2021 NCAA Women’s Frozen Four, where he served as co-chair of the local organizing committee. He has also been an active member of PA Sports, a network of 15 organizations dedicated to promoting sports tourism across Pennsylvania, serving on its executive committee, including four years as treasurer and four years as chair.
“Mark has demonstrated strong leadership, deep industry knowledge, and a clear commitment to Erie County’s tourism economy,” said Terry Cascioli, VisitErie board chair. “His familiarity with VisitErie and its mission, combined with his success leading the Erie Sports Commission, makes him well-positioned to guide the organization during this transition.”
“I am honored to step into the role of interim president and CEO at VisitErie,” Jeanneret said. “Tourism plays a vital role in Erie County’s economy, and I look forward to working closely with our dedicated staff, partners, and community stakeholders and continuing to promote the region as a welcoming and dynamic destination.”
VisitErie will evaluate the interim appointment following a 90-day review period. Ben Huggler, the Erie Sports Commission’s event services director, will serve as its interim executive director for the same period.
