Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organization for Washington, DC, has unveiled significant promotions within its leadership team. Dianna Waldroup has been appointed Vice President of Convention Services, while Letizia Sirtori takes on the role of Vice President of Tourism and Global Development. Both will join the executive team to spearhead DDC's strategic initiatives.
In addition, Alex Gnafakis has been promoted to Senior Creative Director, bringing fresh perspectives to the organization's creative direction. Lindsay Hill has also risen within the ranks, now serving as Director of Visitor Experience and Group Tour, and has been elevated to DDC's senior staff.
These appointments reflect DDC's commitment to strengthening its leadership and enhancing the visitor experience, as Washington, DC continues to be a top global destination.
"I am so proud of the amazing team at DDC that focuses on our mission every day with integrity, mutual respect and admiration for each other," said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO, DDC. "Dianna, Letizia, Alex and Lindsay are part of the world class senior leadership team that chooses to be a part of DDC and they play an integral role in promoting Washington, DC as one of the best destinations in the world. Their work ethic, passion and commitment to our industry speaks volumes."
Welcoming Dianna Waldroup to the Executive Team
Dianna Waldroup - Vice President, Convention Services
With more than 35 years of experience at Destination DC, Dianna Waldroup has been a cornerstone of the organization, leading a dedicated hospitality team that ensures the seamless execution of meetings and conventions of all scales. She also oversees a team of over 120 temporary "Redcoats," providing hands-on support at events to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Waldroup's long-standing relationships with hospitality leaders across Washington, DC have been a key factor in her success, and her expertise is vital in the sales process, helping clients achieve their goals and return to DC for future events. In her new role, Waldroup will focus on enhancing the customer experience while strengthening ties with local partners. Her outstanding leadership was recognized in 2020 when she was named one of Connect Corporate's "15 Over 50."
"This is an exciting opportunity to deepen our focus on enhancing the customer experience," Waldroup said. "By strengthening our support systems and fostering stronger connections with our clients, we aim to elevate the quality and impact of meetings and conventions in Washington, DC. I look forward to leading our talented team as we continue delivering exceptional service and setting new standards in the hospitality industry."
Letizia Sirtori - Vice President,Tourism & Global Development
With 17 years at Destination DC under her belt,
Letizia Sirtori has played a pivotal role shaping strategic direction particularly in Tourism Sales & Visitor Experience department.
Her leadership drove success globally expanding presence into key international markets overseeing offices worldwide including UK Mexico Brazil China Australia India Japan among others building nurturing partnerships airlines corporations tourism destinations worldwide.
Sirtori serves board member International Inbound Travel Association reflecting committed leader industry-wise too!
This role marks both personal professional milestone me says Sirtori
"DDC truly become second family place privilege grow alongside incredible colleagues contribute global expansion efforts rewarding witness transformation strategy lead innovative initiatives globally scale"
The Creative Vision Of Alex Gnafakis
Awards winning visual content crafted by Alex Gnafakis brings life brand stories both domestically internationally meeting planners members alike since joining eight years ago.
The largest shift message identity recent years came via 'There's Only One' campaign thanks strategic vision branding expertise instrumental making magic happen every day city inspires creativity greatest pleasure share stories world growing continuing business best teams around!
"Our city inspires my creativity each day truly greatest pleasure sharing stories world" says Gnafakis
I look forward growing continuing magic business best teams"