Shakara Shelton was named the vice president of sales for Choose Chicago, effective January 9.
In the role, Shelton will drive growth for Chicago meetings and events by leading the DMO’s sales efforts for self-contained hotel events and meetings at signature venues such as Navy Pier.
“I’m excited to join Choose Chicago at a moment when the city is building real momentum,” said Shelton in a press release. "Chicago's venues, hotels, neighborhoods and cultural experiences make it a truly world-class events destination, and I look forward to working with this incredible team to show meeting planners why we really are the best big city.”
[Related: Phoenix’s Largest Hotel Appoints New General Manager]
Shelton comes to Choose Chicago from Hilton, where she served as a national accounts manager. In this role, she was responsible for managing national accounts across the corporate, intermediary and association segments.
In addition to Hilton corporate, Shelton has worked for Embassy Suites, InterMountain Management and Atrium Hospitality, representing more than 15 years of experience in the sales and hospitality sectors.
“We are thrilled to welcome Shakara as our new VP of Sales at Choose Chicago,” said Kristen Reynolds, president and CEO of Choose Chicago, in a press release. “Her ability to lead, inspire and scale high-performing sales teams—combined with her proven success in winning complex, competitive business—will take our sales efforts to new heights and position Chicago for continued growth in the global meetings and events marketplace.”
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