After 15 years, Michael Gehrisch (pictured) has decided to end his tenure as president and CEO of Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI), a trade association representing nearly 600 destination marketing organizations from 16 countries around the world, DMAI announced yesterday.
"We are thankful and appreciative of the leadership and significant contributions Michael has made during his tenure which have made a positive impact on the growth and respect of the destination marketing industry internationally. We wish him the best as he moves on to a new chapter in his life," DMAI Chairman Bob Lander, president and CEO of the Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau, said in a statement.
Gehrisch joined DMAI -- known then as the International Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus (IACVB) -- in 2000, having previously served as executive vice president of the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA) and, before that, Marriott International. In addition to re-branding IACVB as DMAI, he is responsible for establishing DMAI's Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) and for growing DMAI's foundation, the Destination & Travel Foundation.
"This was a perfect time to turn over the leadership of the organization, leaving my successor with a healthy, prospering, and influential position in the marketplace," Gehrisch said. "Fifteen years in one organization is long enough for any association executive. My plans for the future include consulting with DMAI during the leadership transition, overseeing our family real estate investments, and pursuing hospitality related technology investments. My time leading DMAI has been one of the biggest highlights of my career."
Until a new CEO is selected, DMAI COO Charles Jeffers will lead the organization, which will commence a CEO search following a previously scheduled strategic planning session taking place next month in Dallas.
"We want to have productive talks with key DMO stakeholders on the future of our association so that we enhance our relevancy to larger members and determine how we can best serve the interests of all DMOs," Lander concluded. "Times of transition provide an opportunity to redefine an organization, be inclusive, and create a new way forward."
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