Al Hutchinson Stepping Down as CEO of Visit Baltimore

“Under his leadership, we've seen Baltimore transform into a destination that not only attracts significant leisure visitation but also draws marquee conventions and events that drive critical economic impact for the city,” said Board Chair Charles “Chuck” Tildon, who is leading a committee to find Hutchinson’s successor. 

Hutchinson has agreed to remain a consultant to assist with the transition until a replacement is found. 

Hutchinson joined Visit Baltimore as president and CEO in November 2016. As the chief executive of the city’s official destination sales and marketing organization, he helped make the city a viable option for meetings and conventions.

He helped the city win the bid to host the 2033 American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Annual Meeting and Exposition, which is projected to generate an economic impact of $15-$18 million.

He also helped establish a Tourism Improvement District, which provides additional resources directly from the city’s hotels towards sales and marketing efforts that generate tax revenue from visitors.

Hutchinson has more than 30 years of experience in the destination marketing industry in cities including Richmond, Pittsburgh, and Mobile, Alabama.

He serves on numerous key industry boards, including the U.S. Travel Association, Tourism Diversity Matters, and is chair of the Destinations International’s  Board of Directors. He is also the chair of the Religious Conference Management Association. 

"Serving as president and CEO of Visit Baltimore has been the opportunity of a lifetime," said Hutchinson. “It has been the most challenging job that I’ve ever had and also the most fulfilling. After careful consideration, I've decided to step back from full-time executive leadership to focus on other personal interests and opportunities, once my existing contract concludes.”