Steven Paganelli, CDME

Steven Paganelli, CDME is Vice President of Global Media & Partnerships at Tripadvisor, where he leads global partnership strategy and innovative media solutions that connect brands and destinations with more than half a billion monthly travelers.

Since joining Tripadvisor in 2013, Steve has helped shape how partners engage travelers through scalable, performance-driven media and strategic collaboration. He brings more than 30 years of experience across the travel and advertising industries, including leadership roles in destination marketing organizations, digital agencies, and global partnerships.

Prior to Tripadvisor, Steve launched and led a successful destination-focused division at TIG Global, building a portfolio of more than 30 clients. Earlier, he spent 13 years with destination organizations in Connecticut, including nine as President & CEO, overseeing integrated marketing, digital innovation, and early adoption of emerging online tactics - work that earned multiple industry awards, including HSMAI’s Adrian Award.

A Certified Destination Marketing Executive (CDME), Steve serves on the Destinations International Foundation Board Executive Committee, the IAB CRO Council, and advisory boards for the German National Tourist Office, Discover Puerto Rico, and Discover the Palm Beaches. He is also a longtime advocate for inclusive tourism and co-founded Connecticut’s first LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce.