Visit Baltimore, the city’s official sales and marketing organization, has announced an interim leader.
Kireem Swinton, Visit Baltimore’s Vice President of Sales & Customer Experience, will serve as the organization’s interim president and CEO, starting July 1.
“I’m honored to step into this interim role to lead a dynamic team that continues to position Baltimore as a world-class destination,” Swinton said in a statement. “As we move forward, I am committed to amplifying Baltimore’s positive stories, fostering relationships across the city and driving innovative strategies that attract major conventions and leisure visitors at this exciting time in our city’s history.”
Swinton will take the reins from current President and CEO Al Hutchinson, who is leaving his position after eight years. Hutchinson announced in February that he has decided not to renew his contract when it expires on June 30. He will continue in a consulting role for at least six months to aid the transition.
“I commend the BCTB for selecting Kireem Swinton as Interim President & CEO of Visit Baltimore,” Hutchinson said in a statement. “His skills, expertise and industry knowledge make him the perfect choice. I’m proud of what we’ve built together so far, and I look forward to supporting the board, Kireem and our best-in-class team through this transition to ensure that Baltimore’s tourism industry continues to thrive.”
Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott commended Visit Baltimore’s work to uplift Baltimore tourism and supported the selection of Swinton to lead the organization.
“Baltimore has achieved record-breaking visitation numbers in recent years, and I have full confidence in Kireem’s ability to continue this momentum as the interim leader for Visit Baltimore,” Scott said in a statement. “Kireem has the experience and know-how to see us through the transition, ensuring the city loses no ground as a destination of choice.”
Prior to serving as a vice president at Visit Baltimore, Swinton held senior roles with Marriott Hotels and Visit Seattle.
Swinton has helped book major events, such as the 2033 American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Annual Meeting & Exposition.
“The transition committee of the BCTB developed the ideal plan for ensuring Visit Baltimore moves forward in a seamless and positive way,” said Charles “Chuck” Tildon III, chair of the Baltimore Convention & Tourism Board, in a statement. “The decision to elevate Kireem to Interim President & CEO reflects the board’s commitment to maintaining a strong, award-winning organizational culture while ensuring continued success in driving critical economic impact for the city.”
