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Movers + Shakers: San Diego Tourism Authority names Daniel Kuperschmid as CEO

San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA) has installed hospo veteran Daniel Kuperschmid as its new President and Chief Executive Officer to fuel the Southern Californian city’s economic engine and drive future growth.

San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA) has installed hospo veteran Daniel Kuperschmid as its new President and Chief Executive Officer to fuel the Southern Californian city’s economic engine and drive future growth.

Kuperschmid will commence in his new role with San Diego Tourism Authority on 24 March 2025 and brings 30 years’ experience and expertise from Hyatt Hotels.

He most recently served as Hyatt Hotels Vice President of Global Asset Management, managing a portfolio of 42 properties worldwide.

Kuperschmid began his career as a sales manager at Hyatt New Orleans, advancing through sales and marketing roles across multiple US markets and later serving as general manager at properties in Arizona, New Mexico and California.

No, this isn't Mexico, but San Diego's amazing Balboa Park.  Image: San Diego Tourism Authority
No, this isn’t Mexico, it’s San Diego’s amazing Balboa Park. Image: San Diego Tourism Authority

From 2018 to 2024, he led the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego as Area Vice President and General Manager, overseeing eight hotels in the Southern California market, including Hyatt Regency properties in Mission Bay and La Jolla and Andaz San Diego in Downtown.

During his Hyatt tenure, he drove significant revenue growth and group sales production, oversaw major property renovations and championed diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

He has also been an active volunteer in San Diego’s travel industry, serving on the SDTA Board of Directors, including as Board Chair from 2019 to 2023.

One of San Diego's 33 beautiful beaches.
One of San Diego’s 33 beautiful beaches. Image: Shutterstock

Kuperschmid said: “After 30 years with Hyatt, I am incredibly grateful for the experiences and relationships that shaped my career in hospitality and tourism.”

“The team at SDTA has done an outstanding job in making San Diego one of the top destinations in the US and I am honoured to build upon their efforts.”

Play style for San Diego Tourism Authority
San Diego has countless ways to play. Image: Visit California

SDTA Board Chair Shawn Dixon said: “Tourism is a critical economic engine of our city, generating $22 billion in economic activity and shaping our future growth.”

“Daniel’s experience and leadership will further unite our tourism community and elevate our destination, strengthening San Diego’s position as a world-class destination.”

Find out more at sandiego.org