What’s the latest news coming out of Chicago these days? Well, the city poet Carl Sandburg once called “The City of Big Shoulders” recently welcomed travel and tourism pro Kristen Reynolds to the city’s DMO, Choose Chicago (CC). She does so as the president and CEO.
Reynolds, who comes from Destination Long Island, a NYS DMO, where she “spearheaded transformative growth in that region’s visitor economy,” now looks forward to working with city officials, industry partners, and CC team members. She expects “to continue elevating Chicago’s global reputation, attracting visitors and driving economic impact across Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods,” she says.
On the appointment, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said: “Kristen Reynolds is a proven leader in the tourism industry, and we welcome her to Chicago. With major global events on the horizon and our city continuing to break tourism records, Kristen’s leadership will be instrumental in strengthening Chicago’s position as a top destination for visitors, conventions, and business investment.”
Illinois Governor J. B. Pritzker added one step further: “Illinois is in the middle of everything and offers some of the most diverse and engaging opportunities anywhere in the country. I look forward to working with Kristen and Choose Chicago to spread that message, encourage people to visit Chicago, and show businesses why we’re the best place in the country to operate.”
Reynolds stood out from other applicants as she brings 27 years of experience in destination marketing, strategic partnerships, and tourism advocacy. She was ultimately chosen by Choose Chicago because, under her leadership at Discover Long Island, she significantly increased tourism revenue, spearheaded new initiatives for leisure and business markets, and strengthened regional economic development. Her history illustrated a seasoned executive in the ever-changing destination-marketing landscape, working alongside cultural institutions, hotels, boards, and civic leaders.
Along that thread of thought, Reynolds fits right in and wears many hats. She is also a Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME), a member of two boards, including Destinations International and the New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association, and the former President of the New York State Destination Marketing Organizations.
What’s her take on her new and challenging position? “Chicago is a world-class city with unparalleled cultural, culinary, and business assets, and I am honored to take on this leadership role at Choose Chicago,” she said.
Overall, this appointment is a significant change in that Reynolds steps into the role at a pivotal time in Chicago’s history. She will be building on record-breaking tourism momentum heading into the spring and summer months of 2025. For instance, in 2024, Chicago drove historic hotel revenue and tax collections while earning Condé Nast Traveler’s “Best Big City in the U.S.” title for an unprecedented eighth consecutive year.
“With her experience working on both the state and DMO level, Kristen is a dynamic and visionary leader who understands the critical role tourism plays in Chicago’s economy,” Chair of Choose Chicago’s Board of Directors Glenn Eden said. “Her track record of driving growth, fostering strategic collaborations, and championing destination marketing makes her the perfect choice to lead Choose Chicago into its next chapter.”
Choose Chicago Board Member Rich Gamble, who served as interim CEO during the transition, will support Reynolds in her onboarding. On that measure, Edem explained: “We’re extremely grateful for Rich’s guidance during this transition. He has been a source of critical support for our organization and is a steadfast advocate for our city.”
Congratulations Kristen! We at F&D wish you the best and look forward to getting Chicago’s message out to our readership of meeting and event planners who want to know everything there is to know about the Midwest city.
For more information, visit choosechicago.com.
