Accomplished finance leader and former Controller to lead the organization's financial strategy, budgeting, and long-term sustainability plan
San Diego, Calif. (August 26, 2026)— The San Diego Convention Center (SDCC) announces the promotion of Shannon Martinez to Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Martinez, who previously served as Controller, will provide executive leadership for the organization's financial operations and serve as a strategic advisor to the President & CEO and Board of Directors. Her appointment is effective today, August 26, 2026.
Martinez succeeds Mardeen Mattix, who served as Deputy CEO and Chief Financial Officer before becoming SDCC's President and CEO earlier this summer. With more than 25 years of financial experience, including prior service as a CFO, Martinez brings valuable expertise and institutional knowledge to help guide SDCC through its next phase of growth and modernization.
"Throughout her tenure with the Convention Center, Shannon has earned the trust of her team and stakeholders through her strong leadership, sound financial judgment, and deep commitment to our organization," said Mardeen Mattix, President and CEO, San Diego Convention Center. "Her experience and proven record of financial leadership make her the right person for this role. I look forward to continuing to work alongside her as we make important investments in our facility and position the Convention Center to generate even greater economic benefits for San Diego.”
As CFO, Martinez will oversee financial planning and reporting, audit, compliance, budget and forecasting, treasury management, payroll, retirement, debt service, and internal controls. She will continue fostering collaboration and providing financial insight to help senior leaders make informed decisions. Working closely with the Board and Executive Leadership Team, she will provide strategic counsel to support organizational priorities and long-term success.
"Since joining the Convention Center team, I have developed a deep appreciation for the value we create for San Diego through our economic and community contributions," Martinez said. "As we begin a period of critical capital improvements and related initiatives, I am excited to help guide the organization through this next chapter of growth, innovation, and impact."
SDCC plays a significant role in the region's economy by hosting large events that generate substantial economic impact, support good local jobs, and contribute tax revenues that benefit the City of San Diego. In FY25, its meetings and conventions created an estimated regional impact of $1.4 billion, including more than $30 million in tax revenues for the City of San Diego.
A native San Diegan, Martinez began her career in public accounting and has held leadership positions, including Chief Financial Officer, across multiple industries. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State University San Marcos and is a Certified Public Accountant. She is a member of the California Society of CPAs and the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA).
About the San Diego Convention Center
Located along the San Diego Bay and steps from the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, the San Diego Convention Center is the region’s premier gathering place, hosting conventions that create economic benefits and jobs for the San Diego region, paid for by outside visitors to the destination. The San Diego Convention Center Corporation is a public benefit corporation created by the City of San Diego to exclusively manage, market, and operate the waterfront facility.
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Download high-resolution photos of Shannon Martinez and SDCC.
Media Contact
Maren Dougherty, San Diego Convention Center
