Burress Named Anaheim/Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau's New President

December 25, 2012

The Anaheim/Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau’s Board of Directors has named Jay Burress the new president of the bureau, replacing long-time industry veteran Charles Ahlers.

“We are confident that Anaheim and Orange County will move forward under Burress’ leadership as a major leisure and convention destination,” said Steve Arnold, AOCVCB Chairman of the Board.

He added, “Our destination and partners will benefit substantially from his expertise, collaborative style and drive to succeed.”


In his new position, Burress will lead the organization and oversee the day-to-day management of all convention, tourism and destination marketing programs, according to bureau officials.

He also will play a key role in Anaheim and Orange County visitor industry business development and future expansion plans for the Anaheim Convention Center.



Burress formerly was president and CEO of Experience Arlington (Convention & Visitors Bureau for Arlington, Texas).

Prior to that, he spent 20 years at the Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau, where he held executive-level positions in both convention sales and tourism sales.

His experience also includes international marketing, management of six international representation offices and management of five regional sales offices.



“The Anaheim/Orange County Visitor and Convention Bureau is admired by many industry colleagues around the world for all it has accomplished throughout the past 50 years in promoting Anaheim and Orange County as a leading destination,” Burress said.

He added, “I am honored to have been selected to lead this excellent organization, and I fully intend to continue their tradition of success. Having been directly involved at many levels in destination marketing and convention business for more than 20 years, I am confident we can blend our collective talents and experience and continue to keep Anaheim and Orange County in the forefront of the industry as a leading leisure and business destination.”


Burress will take office Feb. 11, replacing Ahlers, who announced his retirement in February of this year, after 20 years with the bureau. Ahlers will stay on the executive team in a transitional role until June 2013.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.