The Chester County Tourism Board of Directors has appointed Alicia M. Richie, CDME, as the new Executive Director of Chester County Tourism of Brandywine Valley in the Countryside of Philadelphia. A Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME), the highest professional credential in destination marketing, Alicia brings extensive leadership experience across several prominent tourism organisations in the northeastern United States.
Alicia currently serves as President and CEO of Finger Lakes Visitors Connection and has previously held senior leadership roles with the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism, Discover Lehigh Valley, Visit Philadelphia, Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, and the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. During her career, she has led destination branding, tourism marketing, public relations and visitor experience initiatives, including statewide campaigns linked to the FIFA World Cup 2026 and America 250 celebrations.
Commenting on the appointment, Nick D’Addezio, Chair of the Chester County Tourism Board and Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Longwood Gardens, said, “After an exhaustive selection process with many outstanding candidates, the committee was united on choosing Alicia M. Richie. Her wealth of knowledge and experience, professionalism, drive, and passion for the region drove our decision. We are confident that Chester County Tourism will thrive under her leadership.”
Expressing her enthusiasm, Alicia said, “I am thrilled to join Chester County Tourism and to help advance the Brandywine Valley as a premier destination. This region has a remarkable story to tell with rich history, world-class gardens, vibrant culinary experiences, and stunning natural landscapes. And as someone who deeply appreciates the equestrian world, I am especially excited to champion Chester County’s exceptional horse country heritage. From its iconic steeplechase events and polo grounds to its network of fox hunting trails, world-class eventing facilities and training centers, and highly coveted equestrian grounds such as Devon, Plantation Fields, and Radnor Hunt, all working together to make this region truly one of a kind. I look forward to partnering with the board, community stakeholders, and the talented Chester County Tourism team to build on the exceptional foundation that has been established here.”
Alicia succeeds Susan Hamley, who is retiring after more than 12 years of leading Chester County Tourism.
Nick D’Addezio added, “While we are incredibly excited to welcome Alicia, the entire board is deeply grateful for everything Susan has accomplished. In over a decade of leadership, she has elevated tourism across the region, launched new programs and visitor experiences, and built and mentored an exceptional team. Her impact will be felt for many years to come.”
Alicia assumes the role at a time when tourism continues to play a significant role in the local economy. According to the 2024 Tourism Economic Impact report by Tourism Economics, visitor spending in Chester County reached US$870.5 million, contributing to an overall tourism economic impact of more than US$1.2 billion annually while supporting thousands of jobs across the hospitality and recreation sectors.
Alicia M. Richie will officially join Chester County Tourism as Executive Director on August 24, 2026.
