The San Diego Convention Corporation looked inward to fill the role of president and CEO of the San Diego Convention Center following the retirement of Clifford “Rip” Rippetoe.
Mardeen Mattix, formerly deputy chief executive officer and chief financial officer for the facility, replaced Rippetoe, who is retiring after holding the top slot for 10 years.
“Mardeen’s depth of experience, strategic mindset and demonstrated leadership in our organization and community made her the clear choice to lead us forward,” said the Corporation’s board chair, Will Rodriguez-Kennedy, in a media release. “She has played a critical role in the convention center’s success for nearly three decades, and we are confident in her ability to lead with clarity, stability and vision for years to come.”
San Diego CC Board: A Well-Rounded Selection
Mattix is a San Diego resident who has worked in leadership roles for the convention center for more than 28 years, in event management, sales, accounting, finance and executive administration. In making the selection, the San Diego Convention Center Board of Directors said the decision to hire Mattix reflected its confidence in her as both a seasoned executive and longtime member of the convention center team.
During her tenure at the convention center, the facility has garnered significant economic benefits for San Diego, generating an estimated $1.57 billion in regional economic impact, according to the San Diego Convention Corporation. Mattix played an instrumental role in a number of the convention center’s most pivotal moments, including the transformation of the venue into an emergency shelter during the pandemic.
As deputy chief financial officer and chief financial officer, Mattix led the facility’s efforts in the areas of financial strategy, organizational performance, governance, labor relations, capital planning, risk management and daily business operations.
“I am honored by the Board's confidence and excited for the opportunity to lead this remarkable organization and team,” Mattix said in the release. "For nearly 28 years, I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated employees, industry partners, clients, community leaders and Board members who share a commitment to San Diego's success. I look forward to building on our strong foundation, supporting our talented team and further strengthening the economic and community benefits we generate for our region."
