The Chester County Tourism Board of Directors has announced the selection of 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 the destination marketing industry, Richie brings a distinguished record of senior leadership across some of the most recognized tourism organizations in the northeastern United States.
Throughout her career, Richie has held senior executive positions including the Finger Lakes Visitors Connection, where she currently serves as President and CEO; the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism; Discover Lehigh Valley; Visit Philadelphia; Kalahari Resorts & Conventions; and the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau. In these roles, she has led destination branding, tourism marketing, public relations, and visitor experience initiatives for major tourism destinations, including statewide campaigns and planning efforts tied to the FIFA World Cup 2026 and America 250.
Chester County Tourism Board Chair, Nick D’Addezio, Vice President, Marketing and Communications at Longwood Gardens lead the search committee. “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.”
“I am thrilled to join Chester County Tourism and to help advance the Brandywine Valley as a premier destination,” said Richie. “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 M. Richie will succeed Susan Hamley, who retires after more than 12 years of dedicated service to Chester County Tourism. “While we are incredibly excited to welcome Alicia, the entire board is deeply grateful for everything Susan has accomplished,” said D’Addezio. “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.”
Richie steps into the role at a pivotal moment for the region. Tourism in Chester County generates an economic impact of over $1.2 billion annually, welcoming millions of visitors to world-renowned attractions such as Longwood Gardens and the storied landscapes of the Brandywine Valley. According to the 2024 Tourism Economic Impact report by Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics Company, prepared for the Pennsylvania Tourism Office and Visit Pennsylvania, the industry generated $870.5 million in visitor spending in Chester County. The sector sustains thousands of hospitality and recreation jobs and drives vital tax revenue that supports communities throughout the county.
Alicia M. Richie will officially join the Chester County Tourism team on August 24, 2026.
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