YOUR EXPERTS
John Lambeth
John, Founder and CEO of Civitas Advisors, specializes in developing, researching, and advocating for unique tourism and travel promotion funding strategies. He and his team deliver unequaled knowledge, depth, and experience globally to destinations and tourism communities that seek sustainable funding solutions to fuel their futures. He is the leading national expert in tourism district creation. He also drafts statewide enabling legislation, builds support among tourism businesses and electeds, and provides non-profit assistance. He and his firm have been recognized as a national leader in developing and implementing revolutionary financing mechanisms for destinations.
Mike Gamble
Mike is the Chairman & CEO of Searchwide Global, a full-service executive search firm. Prior to Searchwide Global, he was SVP of Sales and Marketing for the Philadelphia CVB and held various leadership roles with Marriott International. He has served on the foundation boards of Destinations International, PCMA, MPI, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities and is currently on HSMAI America’s board and Foundation as well as the U.S. Travel Association Board of Directors.
Julie Hart
Julie founded CFO by Design in 2012 with the vision of supporting executives and organizations by using finances as the foundation for organizational excellence. Since then Julie has had the privilege of working with DMO’s and associations across the nation. Julie’s experience does not follow the traditional path and includes serving two terms on the City Council in Bastrop. Julie is known for her expertise in developing easy to understand financial statements, training of executives and boards and taking a long-term, holistic strategic planning approach to organizational finances.
Bill Geist
For over 30 years, Bill served as the Chief Instigator at Zeitgeist Consulting’s DMOproz, a firm specializing in strategic planning, governance, destination development and legislative issues for Destination Marketing and Management Organizations. Bill is the author of Destination Leadership and a contributor to Fundamentals in Destination Marketing. Prior to forming his company in 1995, Bill served as the President/CEO of the Greater Madison (WI) Convention & Visitors Bureau. During his tenure, he was the lead spokesperson and co-strategist for the successful public referendum fight to build the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Monona Terrace Convention Center. He also hosts the DMO sector podcast DMOU (Destination Marketing Organization University).
Chris Ihrig
Chris, CEO of FiredUp! Culture started carving out his path towards success from an early age. After completing his academic activity with a BA from The Evergreen State College and an MBA in Organizational Development from the Regent University, he managed to build a thriving career in corporate leadership and gain national recognition for his work in Leadership Development, Organizational Change, and Culture sectors. He is a best-selling author, speaker, and master facilitator. Passionate about social improvement and evolution, he has always been an active part of his community, serving for more than ten years as an elected School Board Member and supporting programs for people with disabilities and special needs.
“One of the best and relevant sessions I have attended. Well done and many thanks for the hours you all put into planning.”
-Doug Price, Visit Colorado Springs
Fantastic event and I am planning to attend next year.”
- Kyle Edmiston, Visit Lake Charles