WASHINGTON, DC — Brand USA’s now-former President and CEO, Chris Thompson, bid the travel industry farewell in a heartfelt message this past Friday. His statement was soon followed by greetings from Brand USA’s new President and CEO, Fred Dixon. Thompson, who headed up Brand USA for a dozen years, first announced his retirement back in August 2023 .
IPW 2024 participants heard him speak firsthand of his time in the job during his keynote address this past May. A few weeks prior, Brand USA named Fred Dixon as Thompson’s successor. Dixon has more than 30 years of travel industry experience, most recently as President and CEO of NYC Tourism + Conventions.
Read on for Thompson’s July 12 message to his industry colleagues, friends and partners ...
“Today marks my final day as President and CEO of Brand USA, and I am filled with immense gratitude, humility and pride. Leading our nation’s destination marketing organization over the last 12 years has been my most challenging, exciting and fulfilling professional experience and the honour of a lifetime. “I have travelled the country and the world and been inspired by hundreds of the most committed, creative, innovative and seasoned colleagues, many of whom I now call friends.
I can think of no better capstone to my 41 years in the travel business – and indeed my entire working life – than my decade-plus of service to our great nation. “My heartfelt thanks go out to all past and present boards of directors, stakeh.