Photograph by Kevin Ruck for Adobe Stock
The Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau has appointed Dan Williams
as its new president and CEO following an extensive national search. He
will assume the new role in June. With more than 27 years of experience
in the tourism and hospitality industry, Williams joins the GBCVB from Experience Columbus in Ohio, where he currently serves as chief sales officer.
"After a comprehensive national search, it was clear that his energy,
strategic vision and deep understanding of destination marketing make
him the right leader at the time," said Bill Murray, owner of Integral Hospitality Solutions
and chair of the CVB's board of directors. "We're confident that, under
his leadership, Birmingham will continue to grow as a premier
destination for meetings, events and tourism. The future is bright for
the tourism industry in the Greater Birmingham region."
William succeeds the retiring John Oros,
who has successfully helmed the organization since 2015. In 2023, the region's tourism industry generated a record $2.52 billion
and supported 51,550 jobs, representing a 48 percent increase in
economic impact and a 24 percent increase in jobs over the last 10
years.
"I am extremely excited for this new endeavor, and honored to lead
the tourism efforts for Birmingham and Jefferson County," Williams said.
"The momentum here is tangible, and I look forward to building on the
outstanding foundation and impact that John and the GBCVB team have
established."
Williams is an active member of Destinations International, the Professional Convention Management Association, the American Society of Association Executives and the National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners.