Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Bryan Griffin to serve as the next President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, the state’s official destination marketing organization.
Griffin currently serves as Communications Director in the Executive Office of the Governor. As the new President and CEO, he takes the helm of the organization responsible for marketing Florida to domestic and international travelers.
Next President and CEO
“Bryan has led the charge in communicating the message of the Free State of Florida for the past three years from my office,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “I am confident that he is the best candidate for this role, and that he will well-articulate the case for visitors from across the nation and the globe to visit Florida. He has been an invaluable member of our team in the Executive Office, and we will greatly miss his presence and service from the Capitol.”
A Tampa native, Griffin brings experience in communications, marketing and public advocacy. In addition to his current role, he has served as a national director for a prominent advocacy group and previously owned a real estate company and a craft beverage tap room in Tampa.
“I sincerely thank Governor DeSantis for the opportunity to step into this new role and lead the effort to communicate our state’s many nation-leading, desirable characteristics to the world. Tourism is a critical part of the Florida economy and instrumental to Florida’s continued low tax burden,” said Bryan Griffin, in a press statement.
Griffin will work closely with the board, local partners, the tourism industry and the VISIT staff to promote the state, its amenities, natural and historical sites and its commitment to public safety.
VISIT FLORIDA operates through a public-private partnership model, matching public funds with private contributions to promote the state’s $142 billion tourism industry. The organization engages in global marketing campaigns, travel trade outreach and public relations efforts to drive visitation to Florida. It also supports recovery initiatives following hurricanes and other crises, helps destinations attract meetings and conventions and manages Florida’s official welcome centers.
According to the state, VISIT FLORIDA delivers a return on investment of $3.30 for every public dollar spent, making it one of Florida’s highest-performing economic development programs.
For more information, visit visitflorida.com.
