FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 1, 2012) – Tourism, Arts and Heritage Secretary Marcheta Sparrow today announced that the Cabinet has expanded the role of the Kentucky Department of Travel and Tourism to put a greater emphasis on expanding tourism development and attracting new tourism businesses to Kentucky. To accomplish this goal, Michael A. Mangeot has been appointed the new commissioner of the department, effective July 1.
Mangeot, 45, currently serves as president and CEO of the Kentucky Association for Economic Development, a position he has held since 2005. He also served as deputy commissioner of the Department of Travel from 2002-2004.
“Mike’s sound background and excellent reputation in tourism marketing and economic development makes him the right choice at the right time to take on this expanded role,” Sparrow said. “He has developed strong, individual relationships with leaders in many communities, and that is vital to our success. Since tourism adds jobs in every county of Kentucky, it is a valuable form of economic development that we must continue to grow.”
In addition to developing new travel-related opportunities in Kentucky, Mangeot also will manage the cabinet’s tourism development programs and film incentives. He also will oversee marketing and promotion of Kentucky’s existing tourism industry.
“The staff in the Department of Travel and Tourism has been doing a terrific job implementing Kentucky’s ‘There’s Only One’ marketing campaign,” Mangeot said. “I’m proud to be joining them and look forward to new opportunities that will create even more travel-related jobs in the Commonwealth.”
Mangeot, a graduate of Eastern Kentucky University, also has worked in advertising and marketing. He lives in Frankfort with his family.
The Department of Travel and Tourism promotes and markets Kentucky to visitors and media, operates eight welcome centers and provides support to the entire local tourism industry. During 2011, travel and tourism had an economic impact in Kentucky of nearly $11.7 billion and supported approximately 170,000 jobs.
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