Chris Thompson

About Chris Thompson

Christopher L. Thompson is president and CEO of Brand USA. In his role, he presides over the only marketing organization dedicated to promoting the United States as a travel destination to the world. Chris has had the privilege of marketing destinations at the local, state, and national levels over the course of his near 40-year career. His knowledge as an industry veteran combined with his love of travel, Chris knows firsthand how tourism improves communities, expands minds, and connects cultures. He joined Brand USA in 2012 and since then the organization has inspired 7.7 million international travelers to visit the U.S. and experience our warm people, diverse experiences, and amazing destinations. All of which translates to more than U.S. jobs each year,$25 billion in incremental spend, and nearly $56 billion in total economic impact. He began his tourism career in Tallahassee, Fla, where he laid the groundwork and led efforts at various local tourism organizations before joining the state-led tourism arm - VISIT FLORIDA. Serving in multiple capacities, Chris contributed to the amplification of the Sunshine State’s most sought after tourism experiences and rose through the ranks to become president and CEO in 2009. Under Chris’ leadership, the organization realized record growth in international travel. Chris currently sits on the board of Destinations International and has offered his leadership insights and guidance to numerous other national, regional, state, and local trade associations and organizations. Chris is a graduate of the University of Florida (Go Gators!) and he is a member of the advisory board for the university’s Eric Freidman Tourism Institute.

Experience

1. President and CEO

   Brand Usa

   Jan 2012 — Present