South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association names new President and Chief Executive Officer
August 12, 2021
Susan Cohen has been appointed to succeed John Durst
The South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association (SCRLA) has appointed Susan Cohen to serve as its new President and Chief Executive Officer. Cohen will succeed John Durst who is retiring and has been with the organization since 2012.
Cohen has worked with Charlestowne Hotels for nine years, most recently serving as Director of Development, and President of the Clemson Area Chamber of Commerce prior to that.
A graduate of Clemson University and an industry veteran, Cohen has more than 30 years of experience in various aspects of the hospitality industry. She has served as executive vice president of the South Carolina Hotel and Motel Association, vice president of marketing for the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber, and vice president of marketing for Burroughs & Chapin Co. Inc.
“Having worked in hospitality and tourism related positions for more than 30 years, I recognize the importance of a strong industry voice,” said Cohen. “I’ve enjoyed serving on the board and executive committee under John’s leadership, and I look forward to the challenge and the opportunity to take on this new leadership role.”
Prior to joining the SCRLA, Cohen served as a member of the SCRLA’s board of directors and executive committee.
We couldn’t be more pleased to have someone with Susan’s outstanding record of experience and leadership in the hospitality industry lead our Association. Her extensive background, specifically as a former hotelier, is a perfect fit with the SCRLA’s mission and vision for the future,” said SCRLA Board Chairman, Bobby Williams.
About the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association
For more than 75 years, the SCRLA’s mission has been to promote, protect and educate the foodservice and lodging industries of our state and to ensure positive business growth for our members. The SCRLA strives to represent the best interests of its members on small business issues, hospitality and tourism concerns and towards the protection of South Carolina’s quality of life. To learn more about the SCRLA, please visit SCRLA.org.
