Amy Pack will take over as executive director of Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau in July. Butler Eagle file photo

After working together for more than a decade, Amy Pack and Jack Cohen have learned their vision for Butler County is the same.

“Jack is always looking ahead and thinking big,” Pack said. “He looks for bigger and better all the time, and I will continue to do that. Moving forward with fresh new perspectives and our members’ best interest will always be a priority.”

Pack, the bureau’s director of tourism development for the past 12 years, is preparing to take over as executive director when Cohen retires in July. As she prepares for the next step in her career, Pack reflects on how Cohen has supported and prepared her for this role.

“My new position at the bureau is the culmination of my whole career,” she said.

Pack worked in the hospitality industry for more than 25 years before coming to Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau. Through the years, she has seen the office grow.

“When I started, there were six people; now we have a team of 15,” Pack said. “Our team has expanded to meet the increasing demands of tourism in Butler County.”

Pack says, from her first day on the job, Cohen has encouraged her to be actively involved with the community.

“He’s been a great mentor, and he’s allowed me to be hands-on from the day I got here,” Pack said. “I got a lot of exposure to things right off the bat and learned very quickly.”

Over the years, with the support of Cohen, Pack’s sales team was able to spread its reach beyond the region.

“We went on the road to places we had never been before,” Pack said “We went to international tourism conventions and more.”

The bureau joined PA Sports, which enables staff to meet directly with sports planners from around the country. The bureau also has created tourism alliances with VisitPittsburgh and the Pittsburgh International Airport — all in an effort to capture new business for Butler County.

Pack says she looks forward to building upon the foundation Cohen has laid.

“I want us to meet with changing times,” Pack said regarding the future of the tourism industry. “Embracing technology to meet consumers’ needs, while keeping a personal touch wherever possible. We are in the business of people.”

While working in her previous position, Pack created economic impact reports on Butler County events to help educate others on the power of tourism.

“I certainly will continue the things we already do so well,” Pack said. “I will keep looking for great opportunities and new events for Butler County.”

Pack said it’s the character of the people who live and work in the county that has led to this foundation of success.

“Butler County continues to shine and outperform other destinations, and it’s because of our people,” Pack said. “We all have a common goal to be an exceptional place for recreation, business, sports and more.”

Pack aims to continue to highlight Butler County’s diversity.

“Our communities are diverse in their offerings and welcoming to all,” she said. “Around every corner is a new experience and a friendly face.”

Casey Hoolahan is public relations and communications coordinator for Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau.