Visit Florida chief Chris Thompson has been named as next president and chief executive of tourism promotional body Brand USA.
Thompson takes over from Caroline Beteta, who served as interim president and chief executive after Jim Evans stepped down in June. Beteta will become chair of the Brand USA board of directors on October 1.
Thompson is currently president and chief executive for Visit Florida, the state’s destination marketing organisation.
The appointment was welcomed by US Travel Association president and chief executive Roger Dow.
He said: “Chris Thompson is one of the strongest destination marketing leaders in the country, and he is the best person to lead Brand USA.
“With nearly 30 years of experience, Chris knows that marketing the United States is a collaborative effort, and I look forward to the partnerships he will build across our industry as he leads Brand USA to new heights.”
He added: “Our industry and country owe a debt of gratitude to Caroline Beteta for her tireless work as interim chief executive at Brand USA.
“Under her leadership, the organisation maximized contributions, built significant new partnerships and streamlined its operational infrastructure. I am pleased she will continue to lead the organisation as chair of the board.”