Former CVB employee returns to Fargo after nearly 30 years as its CEO

FARGO, N.D. (KFGO) – A former employee of what was known as the Convention and Visitors Bureau has been hired to replace Charley Johnson as Chief Executive Officer of Visit Fargo-Moorhead. Shirley Hughes will succeed Johnson, who’s retiring next week after heading the agency the past 13 years.

Hughes has worked in marketing, organizational growth and brand development in travel, hospitality, sports and entertainment. Her past experience includes leadership roles at Paramount Studios and Hard Rock Cafes.

Visit Fargo-Moorhead Board Chair Doug Peters says Hughes was given the job after a unanimous vote of the hiring committee.

“Her excitement about returning to Fargo-Moorhead is infectious, and her talent and skills align perfectly with our vision of how important each visit is to the vitality and future of our community.” Said Peters.

She began her career as Director of Sales and Marketing for the Convention and Visitors Bureau from 1991 to 1997.

“The opportunity to be closer to my family and lifelong friends, while rejoining the organization that launched my career in a community I have always cherished, is truly a dream come true.” Hughes said.