“After a thorough search process that included a stellar group of candidates, we are thrilled that Don has accepted this position,” stated Bob Lander, Chairman of the DMAI board of directors and CEO of the Austin CVB. “We are confident that he will lead DMAI in becoming the premier trade association for destination marketing organizations both in the U.S. and globally.”

Welsh is a seasoned tourism executive with more than 35 years of experience in the industry. Prior to his role in Chicago, Welsh held the CEO positions at both the Seattle Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Indianapolis Convention & Visitors Association. Welsh also brings extensive hotel experience with him having served in various capacities at Westin Hotels, Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, and the MGM Grand Hotel/Casino in Las Vegas.

“I am incredibly proud of what the Choose Chicago team and Chicago’s visitor industry have accomplished in just five years. Chicago is experiencing an unprecedented travel boom that promises to deliver immense economic benefits,” said Welsh. “While this is a bittersweet day for me and my family, I remain 100% confident in the Choose Chicago leadership team to continue to move this industry forward. Opportunities such as this don’t come along often, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity. I share Bob’s vision to elevate DMAI to the next level and I look forward to working alongside my global counterparts in one of the fastest growing segments within the global economy.“

DMAI is the world’s largest and most reliable resource for official destination marketing organizations (DMOs). A passionate advocate for our members, DMAI is dedicated to improving the effectiveness of more than 4,200+ destination professionals from over 600 destinations in approximately 15 countries.