Alicia Ritchie – Brandywine Valley – New Executive Director

The Chester County Tourism Board of Directors is proud to announce the selection of Alicia M. Richie, CDME, as the new Executive Director of Chester County Tourism, representing Chester County’s Brandywine Valley and 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.”

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 Economics, an Oxford Economics Company, reports that 65,500 international visitors to Chester County generated over $53 million in visitor spending in 2025.  The region has established itself as a global destination, welcoming visitors to world-renowned attractions such as Longwood Gardens and showcasing the storied hidden gems of the Brandywine Valley. The international tourism sector helps sustain thousands of hospitality and recreation jobs and drives vital tax revenue; thus, supporting communities throughout the county and beyond.

Alicia M. Richie will officially join the Chester County Tourism team on August 24, 2026.