Industry professional and Foley native, Shellie Kichler, Joins FST

Shellie Kichler is no stranger to Foley or the sports tourism industry making her an incredible fit to serve as the Marketing and Sales Director for Foley Sports Tourism (FST).

Kichler has spent more than 12 years with SportsEvents Media Group, publisher of SportsEvents Magazine and owner of S.P.O.R.T.S. The Relationship Conference. With the most recent title of Director of Sales, she attributed to over 60 percent of print, digital and event sponsorship sales. In addition to her sales role, Kichler trained and directed both the sales and marketing teams. She was responsible for building integrated marketing plans that focused on sports tourism for over 100 destination marketing organizations and venues across the U.S.

The University of Alabama grad grew up in Foley and has strong ties to the community, which will assist her in keeping the city well-informed of FST events. Being a hometown girl, Kichler understands the unique position of the city within the larger sports tourism landscape.

In her new role, Kichler will be promoting Foley to event planners at conferences around the country, overseeing all marketing efforts, and working as an integral part of the FST team.

“I couldn’t be more excited to bring my industry experience and existing relationships to FST,” Kichler said. “It will be such a natural transition. I’m so proud to join such an impressive group of professionals who are making a difference in this community. Now I get to share my enthusiasm to encourage others to #PlayFoley.”

Foley Director of Recreation and Sports Tourism, David Thompson, said Kichler will be the perfect addition to the FST team.

 “Shellie was an obvious choice,” Thompson said. “She understands our community and also has experience and contacts within the sports tourism industry. She can jump right in and make a positive impact right away.”

Kichler will be overseeing Marketing & Communications Manager Stephanie Donald and working closely with the entire FST team. She is slated to start in her new role March 17.

For more information on Shellie Kichler or any of the FST staff contact Stephanie Donald.