Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau names Tucson CEO to lead bureau

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After a nationwide search, the Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau announced on October 21 that Brent DeRaad, current President and CEO of Visit Tucson, has been elected to lead the city’s destination marketing organization.

He will take up his new position on December 6, 2021.

DeRaad replaces Ron Price, who has been President and CEO since 2013. Price resigned in May to lead Visit Phoenix, Arizona.

“The Executive Committee, Board of Directors and Search Committee, led by SearchWide Global, screened numerous talented candidates during this month-long process. With experience and understanding of the tourism industry, it was clear that Brent was the right person for the role and we look forward to welcoming him to Arlington, ”said Rob Matwick, ACVB Chairman of the Board.

DeRaad comes to Arlington with over 20 years experience in the hospitality, sales and marketing sectors. At Visit Tucson, he was responsible for an annual budget of $ 10 million and 16,000 hotel rooms.

Prior to Visit Tucson, DeRaad was Executive Vice President of the Scottsdale Convention and Visitors Bureau, where he was previously Vice President of Marketing. He was also director of communications for the Greater Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau.

“I am honored to lead the Arlington Convention and Visitors Bureau and take over the baton from Ron Price. The CVB knowledgeable staff, city guides, industry stakeholders and I will work together to continue the growth and impact of the organization and the city as we move forward, ”DeRaad said in the press release. “Arlington is a top sports, leisure and business destination and I look forward to being part of its continued success.”

DeRaad has two degrees from Arizona State University, a master’s in mass communication and a bachelor’s degree in journalism / public relations.

He currently serves as the chairman of the Arizona Lodging and Tourism Association, chairman of the Destination Marketing Association of the West (DMA West), and a board member of both the Arizona Bowl College Football Bowl Game and the Tucson Conquistadores. which hosts the city’s annual PGA TOUR Champions event. He is also a member of the Arizona Governor’s Tourism Advisory Council.

DeRaad and his wife Beth are parents to two adult sons, Devon and Derek.

DeRaad will be using several new tools in Arlington, which calls itself “The American Dream City”. City officials and the company recently broke ground for a Loews Arlington Hotel and Convention Center, a full-service resort that will further bolster Arlington’s robust convention and tourism facilities.

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