At a crucial point in time, as the tourism industry is moving into 2021 which is expected to become a pivotal year of rebuilding and recovery after the devastating losses in 2020, two seasoned tourism and travel experts will be contributing their support to the organization.
Annie Allen, vice president of global tourism sales for CityPASS, has been appointed for the second time to serve on the San Francisco Travel Association’s board of directors, as well as on its executive committee as chair of the board’s Tourism Committee for the 2021 term. She had previously served on the organization’s board from 2013-2017. “CityPASS got its start in San Francisco nearly 25 years ago,” said Allen. “So, the city has always had a special place within the CityPASS family of partner destinations. It’s an honor to give back by joining the team that will design an adaptable, resilient tourism strategy for San Francisco’s post-COVID promotional efforts.”
Gail Hunter, who is working as a global events director in the Bay Area, also joined the San Francisco Travel executive committee on January 1st. She will also serve as chair of the Public Policy Council. An event professional with over 25 years of experience, Hunter most recently served as Vice President, Public Affairs, Arena Operations and Event Management, with the Golden State Warriors in a multifaceted role leading the organization’s events, arena operations public affairs and community engagement efforts. “I am honored to join the board of San Francisco Travel, an organization that embodies the City’s spirit of innovation. I look forward to working on projects and initiatives that create a cutting-edge visitor experience for those visiting San Francisco”, said Hunter.
“Annie and Gail are both extremely well versed in the international arena and intimately familiar with the global travel trade and events industry. Their expertise will be invaluable to rebuilding San Francisco’s domestic and international tourism business in 2021 and beyond,” said San Francisco Travel’s President and CEO Joe D’Alessandro. “This is a critical time for travel, and we’re very much looking forward to Annie’s and Gail’s participation in helping to make sure that San Francisco continues to be a competitive global destination.”
Jon Kimball, Area General Manager, Marriott International, who was installed as Chair of the Board of Directors for 2019-2020 will be continuing his duties into 2021. Under his leadership the board will focus on ensuring the financial stability and long-term strength of the San Francisco Travel Association in 2021 and beyond. In addition to the ongoing oversight and counseling on the organization’s operations, the board’s agenda for 2021 includes a few milestone projects. The process that will lead to the renewal of the Tourism Improvement District and changes to the TID will be started in 2021. Furthermore, the Association’s newly established Equity Council will soon hold its first meeting.
“I look ahead to 2021 with great hope and optimism and am energized by this opportunity to lead the San Francisco Travel board for a second year”, said Jon Kimball. “While challenges remain ahead of us, we are working to develop and implement strategic plans for the recovery ahead. We are delighted to welcome several new members to our board and will work tirelessly throughout 2021 to ensure that San Francisco remains the premiere leisure and convention destination, welcoming visitors from around the world, when it is safe to travel once again.”
The San Francisco Travel Association is the official destination marketing organization for the City and County of San Francisco. Tourism is San Francisco’s largest industry. More than 25.8 million people visited the destination in 2019, spending in excess of $10 billion. More than 82,500 jobs are supported by tourism in San Francisco.
San Francisco is one of the metropolitan areas in the U.S. that has consistently kept Covid-19 largely under control. The COVID-19 Prevention & Enhanced Cleaning Guidelines put forth by the Hotel Council of San Francisco, ensure that our hospitality businesses are adhering to the most elaborate cleaning and safety protocols. San Francisco Travel invites all visitors who are planning to come in 2020 to contribute their part to a safe and enjoyable experience by taking our Safe Travel Pledge.
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