Visit Orlando appointed former president and CEO of the Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority (RSCVA) Charles Harris as the DMO’s new COO.
As COO, Harris will oversee internal operations for Visit Orlando, lead and implement its strategic and annual business plans and ensure the organization continues to align with its mission, vision and values. He will also take on direct management of the digital and data strategy, human resources and finance and business affairs teams.
“Our nationwide search for a Chief Operating Officer found Charles to be the complete package—with his comprehensive experience in destination management and marketing, cross-functional operational leadership and consistent track record leading results-driven teams,” said Casandra Matej, president and CEO of Visit Orlando, in a statement announcing the appointment. “Charles brings a fresh perspective to Visit Orlando that will elevate our operational functions and help us achieve our strategic initiatives.”
During his time as president and CEO of RSCVA, Harris led a team of 120 employees and helped the organization achieve record-setting tax revenue and visitor spending totals, and also secure long-term business engagements for the region, such as hosting the Davis Cup Tennis match and United States Bowling Congress.
"Destination Marketing Organizations are vital to the ecosystem of the travel and tourism industry and the local communities they serve. This is especially true for an industry leader like Visit Orlando,” Harris said in a press release. “Visit Orlando’s reputation for being the best in the business with a high-performing team and exceptional leadership, made this an opportunity I couldn't pass up.”
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