Executive Insights Symposium

An Exclusive Gathering for Visionary Destination Leaders

April 7, 2025 | San Francisco, California

Join influential tourism leaders for a transformative exploration of the future of tourism and destination management. This invite-only experience brings some of the industry’s leading minds together for exclusive conversations and strategic discussions about three of the most pressing issues facing our industry:

1. Smart Cities, Smart Tourism

Technology is reshaping urban and tourism landscapes to create interconnected, intelligent destinations.

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Zheng "Phil" Xiang, Professor and Head of the Howard Feiertag Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, will discuss how Smart Cities integrate data, innovation, and community to revolutionize tourism experiences.

Ryan George, CEO of Simpleview, interconnected data can empower smart tourism ecosystems, showcasing the strengths and opportunity of the newly integrated Granicus/Simpleview platforms.

Vail Ross, VP 2synergize, will explore a data-driven approach to understanding what makes destinations appealing for meetings and events, offering insights critical for smarter planning in the MICE sector.

2. AI: Where Are We and What Happens Next?

As artificial intelligence transforms tourism marketing, content, and operational efficiency, how do we harness its power responsibly and effectively?

Janette Roush, representing Brand USA, will explore the critical topic of AI governance and its ethical application in tourism developoment, management, and marketing.
Andrew McCauley, Visit Greater Palm Springs will delve into AI's impact on marketing automation and content/data management.

3. The State of Engagement and Alignment

Building lasting relationships with stakeholders and fostering community alignment are cornerstones of sustainable tourism.

Adam Burke, CEO LA Tourism, LA and the UNWTO SDG’s

Davis Meyer VP Gov't Relations @ Visit Palm Springs will share a case study on stakeholder engagement and shaping compliance with short-term rental hosts.

Cara Frank, VP of Marketing at Granicus/Simpleview, will offer a perspective on global and national stakeholder initiatives, drawing on her experience with organizations like Destinations International and the US Travel Association

The Executive Insights Symposium is a standalone event for senior executives, but you can add a discounted Simpleview Summit registration to keep the insights flowing.

SECURE YOUR SPOT AT THE SYMPOSIUM

GO FURTHER WITH SIMPLEVIEW SUMMIT

The Executive Insights Symposium is the perfect way to kick off our 18th annual Simpleview Summit, happening April 7-9. It sets the stage for meaningful conversations, innovative strategies, and connections that define the future of our industry. I encourage you to extend the learning and stay for our industry-leading conference.

As a valued leader, you get a 50% discount on either a day pass or a full Simpleview Summit registration with code 25SUMMIT50.

Here are a few sessions designed with executive insights in mind:

A Locals-First Destination Rebranding: Insights on rebranding with a locals-first approach to strengthen destination identity and deepen connections.
Beyond the Curve: Alberta’s Moneyball Strategy to Transform Tourism Development: Discover how Alberta aims to double tourism revenue to $25 billion by 2035 with its MAP strategy.
Layover Live presents: Exploring AI's Potential to Transform Travel, Tourism & Destination Marketing: Learn practical uses of AI tools like ChatGPT for enhancing content, SEO, and customer engagement.
Bridging the Gap: Local Governments & DMOs Partnering for Community Insights: Strategies for DMOs and local governments to align tourism efforts with community needs.
From Transactions to Transformations: Building Stronger Tourism Relationships: Innovative communication strategies to engage members, enhance collaboration, and support local businesses.

The sessions and the hotel room block for both the Executive Insights Symposium and Simpleview Summit will be at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square; please book before the block closes on March 15.