Destinations International Monumental 2025 CEO Summit in Savannah, USA Breaks Records with Three Hundred Nine Dynamic Industry Leaders

Destinations International (DI), the premier global association representing destination organizations and convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), recently held its 2025 CEO Summit in Savannah, Georgia, USA, from March 23-25. With a record-breaking 309 attendees, including 71 newcomers, the event gathered top executives from the destination and tourism sectors for three days of collaborative discussions, insightful sessions, and motivational exchanges.

The summit was hosted in partnership with Visit Savannah, led by Joe Marinelli, the President & CEO, and featured a heartfelt welcome from Savannah’s Mayor, Van R. Johnson. Industry leaders also delivered keynote addresses, with Richard Kessler, President & CEO of The Kessler Collection, and architect Christian Sottile, providing an in-depth look at the development of the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District.

Held at a pivotal time for the tourism and destination management sectors, the summit focused on the complexities facing the industry. Attendees delved into pressing issues like the impact of natural disasters, global political instability, and societal challenges. One particularly impactful session, titled “Surviving the Storm: Tourism Leadership in an Era of Global Uncertainty,” led by DI’s Chief Advocacy Officer, Jack Johnson, discussed strategies for navigating these challenges while staying aligned with a long-term, purpose-driven vision for the future of destination leadership.

Fred Dixon, president & CEO of Brand USA, shared an update on developments and trends impacting the destination sector, while Jared Orton, president of the Savannah Bananas, delivered an engaging presentation about the importance of providing a “fans-first” experience through brand authenticity and bold leadership.

Reflecting on the event, DI President & CEO Don Welsh said, “As the industry continues to face real challenges, it was clear in Savannah that our members are prepared to lead with passion, courage and intention. This summit was a reminder that destination organizations are not just able to navigate change but can help shape it.”

At the 2025 CEO Summit, Destinations International (DI) hosted a captivating creative immersion workshop at the iconic Lucas Theatre, organized by the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). This unique experience explored how design and culture play a pivotal role in crafting dynamic and resilient destinations, offering attendees fresh perspectives on the intersection of creativity, culture, and tourism development.

During the summit, DI proudly introduced its 30 Under 30 Class of 2025, celebrating up-and-coming leaders from 30 destinations across four countries and territories. After reviewing 91 applicants, this exceptional group was selected to take part in an exclusive year-long professional development program, supported by the DI Foundation and its founding partner, SearchWide Global.

Additionally, the DI Foundation hosted a successful silent auction, raising an impressive $83,000 to fund vital initiatives and industry programs that continue to drive innovation in the tourism sector.

Looking to the future, the 2026 CEO Summit will be held in Newport Beach, California, from March 30 to April 1, 2026. Other major events on the DI calendar for 2025 include: