Business Operations Committee

The Business Operations Committee is a collaborative platform for members to address the unique challenges and opportunities within the business operations of destination organizations. The committee is dedicated to fostering an environment of shared knowledge, where members can pool their expertise to identify critical issues and collaboratively develop effective solutions. The core functions include:

  • Knowledge Sharing: Facilitating the exchange of best practices, operational strategies, and lessons learned among professionals in various business operation roles.
  • Problem Identification: Proactively identifying common issues and emerging trends that impact the efficiency, profitability, and sustainability of destination organizations.
  • Educational Content Planning: Developing and curating educational materials, workshops, and training sessions to enhance the skills and knowledge of business operations professionals within the industry.
  • Solution Development: Working together to create and implement practical solutions, tools, and resources that can be applied to improve operational processes and outcomes.
  • Industry Advocacy: Serving as a unified voice to advocate for the needs of business operations professionals and influence industry standards.

Committee Composition

The committee is comprised of individuals directly involved in the business operations of destination organizations, ensuring a hands-on, practical approach to problem-solving. Representatives from partner organizations that provide essential operational resources, software, or services to destination organizations, offering external expertise and market insights are eligible as well.  Members are selected for their deep professional knowledge and their commitment to collaborative improvement. 

2026 Committee Members

  • Alana Cooper, Discover Monroe-West Monroe
  • Aline Gill, ITI Digital
  • Charlotte Dunworth, Destin-Fort Walton Beach
  • Chris Phillips, CPA, Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau
  • Christina Ibanez, Visit San Antonio
  • Dani Keller, Explore St. Louis
  • David Edwards, CMFO, CHIA, PDM, Williamson County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc.
  • Deanna Langlois, Banff & Lake Louise Tourism
  • Debbie Russell, CPA, CFO by Design
  • Donald Lilley, Visit Baltimore (Co-Chair)
  • Ellen Puffer, MBA, SHRM-CP, PDM, Chattanooga Tourism Co.
  • Greg Evans, Simpleview inc.
  • Heather Lang, Visit Austin
  • Jen Schall, Visit Saint Paul
  • Kelly Campbell, Experience Olympia & Beyond
  • Linda Landry (Odell), SHRM-CP, Visit Sacramento
  • Lori Tomchik, Discover Albany
  • Nicole Llido, CTA, Visit Huntington Beach
  • Olga Goldin, Destination Canada
  • Patti Krausert, CAHTA, Tulsa Regional Tourism
  • Paul Perrin, MBA, Fired Up Culture
  • Richard Spiller, Destination Niagara USA
  • Roslyn Smith, Ottawa Tourism (Co-Chair)
  • Sandy Christensen, MPA, CDME, CAE, Meet Minneapolis
  • Stephen Van Xavier, Tourism Richmond
  • Terri Carter, PHR,SHRM-CP, Destination DC
  • Tony Hall, Discover Durham
  • VICTORIA Valles-Miller, Fort Worth Convention and Visitors Bureau

Destinations International Staff Liaison

  • Becky Heath, Vice President of Finance

Share this: