Mario Thompson Takes the Helm as New Chief Sales Officer at Los Angeles Tourism, Enhancing Meetings and Events Strategy

Published on September 27, 2025

The Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board (LATCB) had appointed Mario Thomas as the newly established Chief Sales Officer as of September 30th, 2025. This news comes at an essential point of time as the organization aims to solidify the prominence of Los Angeles as a global destination for meetings and large-scale conventions and events. With his years of experience, Thompson will seek to shape the sales strategy within the city. In fact, his years of sales leadership in the premier hospitality industry within the Hilton Hotels and Resorts and Marriott International can be perfectly integrated to help shape the city’s sales strategy in the drive to compete with other key destinations like of San Francisco, New York, Las Vegas, Chicago, Orlando, and Washington D.C.

A Wealth of Experience in Sales Leadership

Mario Thompson brings over 20 years of sales leadership experience to the role. Prior to joining LATCB, Thompson held senior roles at Hilton Hotels and Resorts and Marriott International, where he was responsible for overseeing sales strategies in major U.S. cities, including San Diego, Chicago, Washington D.C., and New York. His career has been built on a foundation of driving revenue growth, improving sales performance, and fostering relationships with key stakeholders.

Thompson’s most recent position was as Market Director of Sales & Marketing for JW Marriott L.A. LIVE and The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles. In this capacity, he managed group sales, catering, and leisure sales, as well as overseeing marketing performance for two of Los Angeles’ flagship properties. His deep understanding of the Los Angeles hospitality landscape and his established relationships with customers, planners, and partners make him a perfect fit for leading the city’s tourism and convention sales efforts.

Strengthening Los Angeles’ Position in the Meetings and Events Market

As Chief Sales Officer, Thompson’s primary responsibility will be to lead Los Angeles Tourism’s global sales and services strategy. This includes driving professional meetings, conventions, and large events to the region’s hotels and venues, including the prestigious Los Angeles Convention Center. By focusing on these key segments, Thompson will help ensure that Los Angeles continues to be a go-to destination for high-profile gatherings.

Los Angeles is already a thriving hub for conferences, business events, and conventions. The city is home to world-class venues, like the Los Angeles Convention Center and Staples Center, as well as a broad range of hotels and entertainment options that cater to both business and leisure travellers. By drawing more events to the region, Thompson aims to not only boost tourism but also create economic opportunities for local communities, reinforcing Los Angeles’ status as a leading global city for tourism and events.

Thompson’s new role will also involve strengthening relationships with current partners and customers, as well as building new ones to expand Los Angeles’ reach in international markets. His efforts will contribute to enhancing the city’s reputation and increasing its competitiveness in attracting international and national events, including those in key sectors like entertainment, technology, and healthcare.

Thompson’s Vision for Collaboration and Growth

As a passionate advocate for Los Angeles, Thompson’s leadership will focus on collaboration across all levels. One of his goals will be to build stronger connections between the Los Angeles Tourism team, event planners, and stakeholders. He understands that fostering these partnerships is essential to driving future growth and ensuring that the city remains a top choice for world-class meetings and events.

Thompson’s previous experience in managing large, diversified portfolios will also serve him well as he works to coordinate with multiple venues and event organisers to bring major conferences, trade shows, and cultural events to Los Angeles. The city’s wide array of attractions, from Hollywood to the vibrant cultural scene in Downtown LA, offers a unique combination of business and leisure opportunities, making it an ideal location for events that appeal to both professionals and tourists.

How Mario Thompson’s Appointment Will Benefit Tourists and Travellers

For tourists and travellers, Mario Thompson’s appointment signals a continued emphasis on making Los Angeles a more attractive destination. As Chief Sales Officer, Thompson will ensure that LA’s hospitality offerings are marketed effectively, positioning the city as a must-visit location for both leisure and business purposes. His focus on conventions and large-scale events will bring more international and domestic visitors to the city, which will, in turn, enhance the local tourism industry.

Tourists visiting Los Angeles for leisure will benefit from the increased focus on high-quality services, events, and attractions that cater to both professional and recreational interests. Whether travellers are coming to LA for a major convention, a business conference, or to explore its cultural landmarks, Thompson’s leadership will help ensure that the city remains at the forefront of the global tourism market.

A Bright Future for Los Angeles Tourism Under New Leadership

Mario Thompson’s role as Chief Sales Officer with the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board is a major milestone for L.A.’s tourism and events industry. With years of sales leadership, hospitality industry experience as well as long-standing personal connections to the city, Thompson is more than capable of leading the city’s tourism industry to greater heights. His goal of bringing more conventions, events, and business meetings will definitely provide a greater business case for the city’s status as a premier destination for international visitors.

Therefore, for travellers looking to explore Los Angeles’ vibrant culture, world-class entertainment, and impressive venues, Thompson’s efforts will ensure the city remains a top choice for all types of visitors, no matter if they are in town for business or a cozy holidays.