Catch Des Moines President and CEO Greg Edwards Retiring

Catch Des Moines has announced the retirement of President and CEO Greg Edwards, who has been with the organization since 2000.

During Edwards’ 25 years at the helm of Catch Des Moines he helped bring marquee events to the region including NCAA Wrestling Championships, NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament First and Second Rounds and AAU Junior Olympic Games.

Edwards reorganized the Des Moines Area Sports & Tourism Commission as well during his tenure. The TEAMS ’31 Conference & Expo will be held at the Iowa Events Center in downtown Des Moines and also marks the first time the city has hosted the event.

“It’s been one of the greatest honors of my life to serve our community in this position,” said Edwards, who will step down this summer but stay on to help with the leadership transition. “Seeing the region evolve into this vibrant and thriving destination and working alongside everyone who has been a part of this journey has been truly remarkable and humbling. I believe the foundation that we’ve built here with the incredible team at Catch will ensure that the tourism industry here will continue to flourish and grow.”

Edwards championed venue projects including Wells Fargo Arena and Lauridsen Skatepark. Edwards previously led convention and visitor’s bureaus in Overland Park and Peoria, totaling 40 years of hospitality experience.

A search committee put together by the Catch Des Moines Executive Committee will work alongside SearchWide Global to find a successor.

“Greg is truly a one-of-a-kind leader, whose infectious energy, passion and drive leave an indelible mark on everyone he comes into contact with,” said Brian Mulcahy, assistant executive director of the Des Moines Airport Authority and Catch Des Moines Board Chair. “He’s Des Moines’ biggest cheerleader and his leadership has been transformational for the region. His legacy extends well beyond the boardroom and leaves a lasting impact that has set us up for success heading into this next chapter.”