The US Travel Association has announced Christopher L. Thompson, former president and CEO of Brand USA, and William D. “Bill” Talbert, III, former president and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, as the 2024 honorees for the US Travel Hall of Leaders.

Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the US Travel Association, praised their contributions, stating, “Bill and Chris embody the highest ideals of a travel leader. Each has significantly contributed to the success and growth of this industry.”

Christopher L. Thompson: A Legacy of Destination Marketing

From 2012 to 2024, Thompson served as president and CEO of Brand USA, a public-private partnership established under the federal Travel Promotion Act of 2009. During his tenure, he led innovative projects, including acclaimed storytelling and content strategies, the creation of three large-screen films with global viewership, and the launch of the first national destination connected-TV channel.

Under Thompson's leadership, Brand USA became a model public-private partnership for national destination marketing organizations. He played a crucial role in the resurgence of international inbound visitation to the United States following the pandemic.

Thompson's extensive career in the travel industry includes previous roles as president and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA and the Tallahassee Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. His journey began in 1983 at the former Florida Department of Commerce, Division of Tourism.

Talbert, who served the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau for over three decades, played a key role in transforming Miami into a globally recognized travel hub.

These leaders are honored for their outstanding service and contributions that have positively influenced the travel sector on both national and global scales. The induction ceremony will take place this autumn.