SOUTH BEND — Visit South Bend Mishawaka is excited to officially announce the hiring of two new employees, Susan O’Connor and Jake Brown. On January 16, Susan O’Connor started as the new services & sales coordinator, and Jake Brown joined the VSBM staff on April 9 as the new content manager.

In her new role, O’Connor is responsible for all services related to visitors or visiting groups including conventions, meetings, and sports groups. Also, she assists with sales efforts. O’Connor had previously worked in the field of parks & recreation for over 36 years, including 22 years as the Recreation Director for the City of South Bend.

“It is very exciting starting something new by joining this talented staff at VSBM,” said O'Connor. “This position will give me the opportunity to learn the tourism field and work directly with visitors.”

As the new content manager, Brown will oversee all VSBM social media accounts as well as all blog posts on the VSBM website. He will also be out in the community at many events and attractions providing in-the-moment content for the VSBM audience.

Before joining VSBM, Brown worked at the South Bend Tribune for a year as a restaurant, retail, and craft beverages columnist. Prior to that, he spent eight years working as a reporter for Irish Illustrated, covering Notre Dame athletics.

“I couldn’t be more excited to be joining the VSBM team,” said Jake. “This is a perfect opportunity for me as I transition from one career to another, especially since I get to keep telling stories in The Bend.”

With the addition of O’Connor and Brown, VSBM is now at full staff with nine employees— the most the convention and visitors bureau has ever had.