David Gilbert, he/him/his
President & CEO
With a passion for all things Cleveland, David Gilbert joined Destination Cleveland in 2011, adding to his role as president and CEO of Greater Cleveland Sports Commission. From April 2015 through Dec. 2016, he led the Cleveland Host Committee for the 2016 Republican National Convention.
David’s focus includes identifying new ways for the organization to contribute to the economic growth of the industry and region through its visitor attraction and destination management efforts. He also works collaboratively with civic and public partners to design innovative initiatives that advance the region. Under David’s leadership, the city’s narrative and destination product have improved significantly, contributing to nine consecutive years of visitor growth at a pace greater than the U.S. visitation growth rate.
David also dedicates his time to several organizations as a Board member, including the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland, and many other local, national and international organizations. During his career, he has been recognized as one of Cleveland’s “30 Influencers of the Past 30 Years” by Crain’s Cleveland Business, Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year and the 2016 SME Cleveland Business Executive of the Year Award.
David holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from The Ohio State University and an MBA from Cleveland State University. When not busy enjoying Cleveland’s Metroparks on his bike, David travels, trains for marathons and hangs out with his family.
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