Michael Martelon is the new CEO of the Sullivan County Visitors Association, bringing more than 30 years of tourism experience from Telluride, Colorado, and Santa Cruz, California. He joins the region with a mission to blend innovation, culture, and community-focused tourism.
Learning Leadership from the Ground Up
Martelon began his career as a receptionist in Boston, where he learned that “true leadership is about commitment to the team. I work for the team, not the other way around.” This philosophy continues to guide his approach in Sullivan Catskills.
Protecting Place, Connecting People
Drawing on lessons from past roles, Martelon emphasizes the importance of preserving local character while sharing authentic experiences. “Our brand is the people and the place,” he said. “Tourism touches everything in the community, and when managed well, it can lift the entire area.”
Data Meets Storytelling
Martelon is building a tech-driven, data-informed foundation to better connect with visitors. “Visitor information helps us aim our stories at the right audiences and measure tourism’s impact,” he explained, while making clear that the heart of tourism storytelling comes from the region’s culture and history.
Looking Ahead
Plans include a redesigned website, seasonal visitor guides, and a $750,000 collaborative grant program supporting local events, culture, and business growth. Martelon hopes visitors and residents alike will see “commitment, innovation, and inclusion—and say, ‘We can’t wait for the next five years.’”
For updates on Sullivan County tourism initiatives, visit sullivancatskills.com.
Image: New SCVA CEO Michael Martelon. (Credit: Sullivan County Visitors Association)