A former Traverse City Tourism marketing director is taking on a new leadership role with the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau
Coryn Briggs has been named director of destination marketing, while Jeff Leitch will serve as the bureau’s new executive director. The appointments were announced Oct. 19 as longtime leader Tim Hygh prepares to retire after more than 15 years in the role.
Hygh helped establish the Mackinac Island Convention & Visitors Bureau in 2010. He will remain in an advisory role to support the island’s tourism, membership and advocacy efforts.
“Our team and board could not be happier with the newest additions to our leadership team,” Hygh said. “Jeff’s diverse background and Coryn’s industry knowledge make them a perfect fit for the future of the organization.”
Briggs brings more than 19 years of marketing experience to her new position. She most recently served as senior director of marketing for Traverse City Tourism, where she led marketing strategies and campaigns to increase destination awareness and visitation.
Her experience includes digital marketing, creative strategy, content development, data-driven marketing, team leadership, and agency management. During her time at Traverse City Tourism, Briggs led campaigns and partnerships that helped earn national media recognition for the destination.
“Mackinac Island is a very special place to me and holds a distinct place in Michigan’s heritage, defined by its timeless charm, rich history, and incredible community,” Briggs said.
“Having spent my career championing Michigan travel, it is an honor to step into this role, and I’m thrilled to be able to share the unique Mackinac Island story with visitors near and far.”
Briggs will take over responsibilities from Steph Castelein, who has worked for the tourism bureau since 2020 and most recently served as managing director. Castelein will leave the organization at the end of October but plans to remain in the area.
Leitch brings more than 20 years of experience in marketing, media, sales and business leadership to the executive director role.
He most recently served as senior sales director for retail and consumer packaged goods at LiveRamp, where he worked with national brands on marketing technology, data strategy and customer engagement. Before that, he spent six years at Meijer, including serving as director of Meijer Media. He also held leadership positions at MLive Media Group and iHeartMedia.
Leitch’s connection to Mackinac Island began more than a decade ago when he visited with MLive Media Group to present a digital marketing partnership proposal to the tourism bureau. Since then, the island has become a regular destination for Leitch, his wife, Anna, and their four sons.
“Stepping into this leadership role is a deeply meaningful full-circle moment for me,” Leitch said. “I am honored to build upon the incredible legacy Tim and the board have established, work alongside our vibrant business community, and guide the bureau into its next chapter.”
For more information, visit the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau website.
