They searched the country and landed on a local candidate. Catch Des Moines has spent months looking to replace its noted leader Greg Edwards, who has served in the role for 25 years.

The organization’s vice president of sales, Trina Flack, will serve as the next president and CEO for Catch Des Moines. Flack has been with Catch Des Moines for 17 years.

Edwards is retiring from Catch Des Moines in July.

“After an extensive nationwide search, it became clear that Trina Flack was the ideal choice to lead the organization into its next chapter. Her deep-rooted passion for promoting Central Iowa’s venues and visitor experiences will be a tremendous asset to all of our partner communities,” Brian Mulcahy, chair of the Catch Des Moines board of directors, said in a press release.

According to Catch Des Moines, Flack has helped secure major events that have brought millions of dollars in economic development to the region, including the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament (2016, 2019, 2023 and upcoming in 2028), the Dew Tour, Ironman North American Championship and the National Speech and Debate Tournament.

She led local planning efforts for the Iowa Caucus Consortium, hosting more than 2,000 international media members. She has also advocated for legislative initiatives such as the development of Tourism Improvement Districts. She has volunteered for regional boards and commissions including the city of Ankeny Planning and Zoning Commission and the Capital Crossroads Regional Council. She earned Bachelor of Science and Master of Business Administration degrees from Iowa State University.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead an organization that has meant so much to me over the past 17 years,” Flack said in a press release. “Catch Des Moines has built incredible momentum, and I’m excited to carry that forward with a team and community I deeply believe in. Greg’s leadership not only elevated Greater Des Moines as a visitor destination, it inspired those of us lucky enough to work alongside him. I’m honored to continue that work and help shape what’s next for our region.”