Travelbiz E-Zine
3
April
2025

Choose Chicago Announces Kristen Reynolds as New President & CEO

#Traveltradetogether

Proven tourism executive to lead Chicago’s global destination marketing efforts

Choose Chicago announced today that Kristen Reynolds, a highly respected leader in the travel and tourism industry, will serve as the organization’s new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective May 5.  Reynolds joins Choose Chicago after an impactful tenure as President and CEO of Discover Long Island, where she spearheaded transformative growth in the region’s visitor economy.

“Kristen Reynolds is a proven leader in the tourism industry and we welcome her to Chicago,” Mayor Brandon Johnson said. “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.”

Chicago’s tourism industry is a key driver of the city’s economy, and Reynolds’ hiring highlights a strong commitment to growth, innovation, and global visibility.

“Illinois is in the middle of everything and offers some of the most diverse and engaging opportunities of anywhere in the country,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I look forward to working with Kristen and Choose Chicago on spreading that message, encouraging people to visit Chicago, and showing businesses why we’re the best place in the country to operate.”

Reynolds brings 27 years of experience in destination marketing, strategic partnerships, and tourism advocacy. 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. Reynolds’ track record illustrates a seasoned executive in the ever-changing destination-marketing landscape, working alongside cultural institutions, hotels, boards and civic leaders.

A Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME), she also serves on the Board of Directors for Destinations International and the New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association, and previously was President of the New York State Destination Marketing Organizations.

“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,” Reynolds said. “I look forward to working with the incredible team, city officials, and industry partners to continue elevating Chicago’s global reputation, attracting visitors and driving economic impact across Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods.”

Reynolds steps into the role at a pivotal time as Chicago builds on record-breaking tourism momentum heading into the spring and summer months. 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,” Glenn Eden, Chair of Choose Chicago’s Board of Directors, 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.

“We’re extremely grateful for Rich’s guidance during this time of transition,” Eden said. “He has been a source of critical support for our organization and is a steadfast advocate for our city.”

About Choose Chicago

Choose Chicago is the official destination marketing organization for the City of Chicago, dedicated to promoting the city as a premier global destination for visitors, meetings, and conventions. By leveraging Chicago’s diverse assets, world-class attractions, and vibrant cultural scene, Choose Chicago drives economic growth and enhances the city’s reputation worldwide. Follow @choosechicago on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and X/Twitter, and tag #ChicaGOandKNOW. For more information, visit choosechicago.com.

Subscribe to our E-Zine

    More

    from latest edition

    Shannon Airport Expands Park4Less Car Park with 1,000 New Spaces Ahead of Busy Summer Travel Season
    11th June 2025

    Shannon Airport Expands Park4Less Car Park with 1,000 New Spaces Ahead of Busy Summer Travel Season

    The Shannon Airport Group is pleased to announce the expansion of its car parking facilities with the addition of 1,000 new spaces in its best value, Park4Less car park, ensuring greater choice ...

    Read more
    Dublin Airport reminding passengers to be ready for security this summer
    11th June 2025

    Dublin Airport reminding passengers to be ready for security this summer

    Passengers urged to prepare in advance and avoid common screening mistakes. Dublin Airport is reminding passengers heading off on holiday this summer to ensure they have their liquids in order w...

    Read more
    Exceptional Savings with Oceania Cruises: Up to 55% Off & Amenities
    11th June 2025

    Exceptional Savings with Oceania Cruises: Up to 55% Off & Amenities

    Exceptional Savings with Oceania Cruises: Up to 55% Off & Amenities

    Read more
    Major construction wraps and terminal unveiled taking Sydney’s new 24-hour airport closer to take-off
    11th June 2025

    Major construction wraps and terminal unveiled taking Sydney’s new 24-hour airport closer to take-off

    Sydney's new 24-hour airport is one step closer to welcoming its first passengers, with major construction works across Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI} now complet...

    Read more
    Meet the future of business travel at this year’s Business Travel Innovation Faceoff Europe 2025 Award Presentation
    11th June 2025

    Meet the future of business travel at this year’s Business Travel Innovation Faceoff Europe 2025 Award Presentation

    Business Travel Show Europe will spotlight the next generation of corporate travel innovation with the return of the hotly contested Business Travel Innovation Faceoff Europe 2025 competition, t...

    Read more
    Northern Lights meet City Heights: Finnair announces route to Toronto
    11th June 2025

    Northern Lights meet City Heights: Finnair announces route to Toronto

    The Helsinki to Toronto connection marks the only direct flight between Finland and Canada.
    Leading Nordic airline, Finnair, is taking to the skies with its transatlantic expansion next su...

    Read more