Brand USA unveils 2024 board of directors for global triumph

Friday, January 12, 2024

Brand USA, the nation’s destination marketing organization, has unveiled its 2024 board of directors, comprising both new and returning members. The board, consisting of 11 individuals, plays a crucial role in guiding Brand USA’s mission and operations.

Designated by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce in collaboration with the U.S. Secretaries of State and Homeland Security, every director embodies a distinct segment of the travel and tourism sector, subject to a maximum tenure of two successive three-year terms.

Among the newly appointed and re-appointed members are Mike Mangeot, Commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Tourism (new appointment) for the State Tourism Office; Hari Nair, Global SVP of Lodging Partners at Expedia Group (new appointment) for the Travel Distribution Services sector; and Kristen Esposito, Principal at Esposito Global Partners (reappointment) for the Small Business or Retail sector.

Todd Davidson, continuing as the Board Chair for a second term, will lead the organization through its next phase, involving a brand refresh and the search for the next CEO. Under his leadership, the board will focus on identifying a new CEO to build on the accomplishments initiated by Chris Thompson.

Todd Davidson, also the CEO of Travel Oregon, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming changes, emphasizing the commitment to maintaining the USA’s global competitiveness. Chris Thompson, who led the organization for the past 12 years, voiced confidence in Davidson’s ability to guide the board into the future.

The 2024 Brand USA Board of Directors includes a diverse group of individuals representing various sectors within the industry, such as State Tourism, Land or Sea Passenger Travel, City Convention and Visitors’ Bureau, Immigration Law and Policy, Restaurant, Small Business or Retail, Hotel Accommodations, Travel Distribution Services, Commercial or Private Passenger Air, and Attractions or Recreations.

The spring meeting of the Brand USA board of directors is scheduled for March 22, 2024, in Washington, D.C. Those interested can register for the virtual meeting or access the 2024 schedule of board meetings.

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