Jim Evans steps down as Brand USA CEO

Brand USA Chief Executive Officer James Evans is stepping down and will be replaced in the interim by Brand USA Chairman-elect Caroline Beteta, it was announced today.  The year-old organisation’s Board of Directors has begun a search for Evans’ replacement.  The agreement was reached in consultation with the Board, and comes as the organisation pivots from a start-up endeavor to securing its place as the nation’s destination marketing organisation (DMO).  Beteta is the highly regarded CEO of Visit California, and a longtime industry veteran. “We thank Jim for the time, energy and passion he has brought to establishing this enterprise,” said Beteta.  “Brand USA has hit critical milestones in its development and now is at an important transition point.  Our focus going forward is to build on the momentum the organisation has established by increasing and deepening our partnerships with the travel industry, building out co-op marketing opportunities to attract increased private-sector funding, and enhancing our responsiveness and communications with our government partners.” “As I reflect on the accomplishments of the last year, I am gratified in how much progress we have made,” said Evans. “I know I leave Brand USA with a great foundation and a strong team that will take the organisation forward.” Brand USA is a national program with the mission of attracting billions of dollars in increased visitor spending to the U.S., which will create tens of thousands of new jobs.  In its first year of operation, Brand USA has achieved numerous accomplishments against its vision including: Establishing a fully integrated marketing, sales, research, partnership and development strategy. Developing a strong brand identity. Creating a state-of-the-art website to promote the United States worldwide and provide travelers important information about U.S. entry policies and procedures. Creating the nation’s tourism marketing campaign and launching the first wave in three top-tier markets – Japan, Canada and the U.K. Establishing partnerships with more than 250 industry organisations, which will raise more than $10 million in industry contributions and more than $30 million in in-kind contributions.