Discover Puerto Rico has appointed Jorge L. Perez, CVE, MBA, as its new Chief Executive Officer, following an extensive search involving over 100 executives from Puerto Rico and abroad. Perez brings more than two decades of experience in economic development, destination marketing, events and the entertainment industries to the role.
“Jorge’s professional experience is comprehensive and impeccable. I am confident that, as the leader of the organization, he will stimulate travel demand to our destination and continue the tourism boom we’ve seen this decade,” said Raul Bustamante, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Discover Puerto Rico, the island’s destination marketing organization (DMO), in a press statement.
Bringing Experience to Discover Puerto Rico
A 15-year veteran at Legends/ASM Global, Perez currently serves as Regional General Manager, overseeing the Convention Center, Coliseo, Coca-Cola Music Hall and Antiguo Casino in Puerto Rico. His leadership has been instrumental in positioning Puerto Rico as a premier destination for conventions and high-impact events. In 2022, VenuesNow recognized Perez as an “All Star” for driving exceptional growth in the Convention District.
Under Perez’s guidance, Puerto Rico’s venues have garnered multiple excellence awards and achieved top global rankings in Billboard and Pollstar for ticket sales and event quality. His expertise has been crucial in elevating the island’s status in the tourism and economic landscape.
“I welcome this challenge with great enthusiasm, recognizing the vital role of the DMO in developing the visitor economy and addressing the current challenges facing the industry. Over the past four years, I’ve witnessed a tourism renaissance, and Puerto Rico is uniquely positioned to solidify itself as a global-caliber destination. I am confident that, through collaboration with the DMO team, the government, and the private sector, we will achieve every goal we set,” said Perez in a press statement.
The transition process will span three months, during which Perez will manage external strategic oversight in addition to his current responsibilities. This arrangement will facilitate coordination between the DMO and properties for groups and conventions, aligning with promotional strategies to maximize economic impact. Perez will officially assume his role as the lead for marketing Puerto Rico for leisure, business and conventions on September 15.
For more information, visit discoverpuertorico.com.
