U.S. Travel Announces Extension for Dow, Followed by CEO Transition in 2022

The U.S. Travel Association announced today at its board of directors meeting that Roger Dow, as previously communicated to the U.S. Travel board, will extend his leadership as president and CEO of the association through next July (2022), at which time he will retire from his position following 17 years of service to the board and the association’s membership.

In his capacity, which he has held since January 2005, Dow has guided U.S. Travel and the broader industry through periods of remarkable growth—marked by 10 consecutive years of expansion from 2009 to 2019. He has also helped it successfully navigate tremendous challenges—most recently, bringing the travel industry together during the Covid-19 pandemic. Dow is credited with leading the legislation that created Brand USA, the nation’s destination marketing organization, and developing policies and programs that enabled domestic and international inbound travel to thrive by ensuring an understanding of travel and tourism as a linchpin of the American economy.

U.S. Travel National Chair Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, praised Dow’s enduring commitment and leadership. Said Duffy: “The board is very grateful to Roger for his steadfast leadership and profound influence on this industry and for strengthening U.S. Travel as a key resource and unifying voice. Together with the exceptional team he has assembled, travel is well positioned for growth in the years to come. We are especially glad that Roger will remain in this critically important role over the next year as we continue to rebuild and chart the future course of U.S. Travel and the industry.”

Dow added: “It’s my aim, every day, to champion the immense benefits of this tremendous industry and all the good travel does for communities and millions of American workers. I am deeply committed to working with the board and our talented team to continue leading our recovery and ensure that U.S. Travel is on a firm trajectory for its next CEO.”

In the coming months, Duffy will name a representative Search Committee and the U.S. Travel board will begin a transparent and inclusive process to identify the association’s next top leader.