Choose Chicago announced April 7 that Kristen Reynolds, a highly respected leader in the travel and tourism industry, will serve as the organization’s new president and CEO, effective May 5. Reynolds joins Choose Chicago after an impactful tenure as president and CEO of Discover Long Island in New York, where she spearheaded transformative growth in the region’s visitor economy for nearly 10 years.
“Kristen Reynolds is a proven leader in the tourism industry, and we welcome her to Chicago,” Mayor Brandon Johnson says in a prepared statement. “With major global events on the horizon and our city continuing to break tourism records, Kristen’s leadership will be instrumental in strengthening Chicago’s position as a top destination for visitors, conventions, and business investment.”
Chicago’s tourism industry is a key driver of the city’s economy, and Reynolds’ hiring highlights a strong commitment to growth, innovation, and global visibility.
“Illinois is in the middle of everything, and offers some of the most diverse and engaging opportunities of anywhere in the country,” says Gov. JB Pritzker. “I look forward to working with Kristen and Choose Chicago on spreading that message, encouraging people to visit Chicago, and showing businesses why we’re the best place in the country to operate.”
Reynolds brings 27 years of experience in destination marketing, strategic partnerships, and tourism advocacy. Under her leadership at Discover Long Island, she significantly increased tourism revenue, spearheaded new initiatives for leisure and business markets, and strengthened regional economic development. Reynolds’ track record illustrates a seasoned executive in the ever-changing destination-marketing landscape, working alongside cultural institutions, hotels, boards, and civic leaders.
“Leading Discover Long Island has been an absolute honor, and I am incredibly proud of the record-breaking and award-winning results we’ve achieved over the past 10 years,” says Reynolds. “I moved here from Arizona with my two young daughters who are now off to college but will always call Long Island home. I can’t thank the board, the team, and the community enough for embracing us as a family and me as an industry leader. While I could not be more excited to take the helm at Choose Chicago to lead one of the nation’s most iconic and vibrant destinations, Long Island will always hold a special place in our hearts.”
A holder of the Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) credential—bestowed by Destinations International—she also serves on the board of directors for Destinations International and the New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association.
“Chicago is a world-class city with unparalleled cultural, culinary, and business assets, and I am honored to take on this leadership role at Choose Chicago,” Reynolds says. “I look forward to working with the incredible team, city officials, and industry partners to continue elevating Chicago’s global reputation, attracting visitors and driving economic impact across Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods.”
Reynolds steps into the role at a pivotal time, as Chicago builds on record-breaking tourism momentum heading into the spring and summer months. In 2024, Chicago drove historic hotel revenue and tax collections while earning Condé Nast Traveler’s “Best Big City in the U.S.” title for an unprecedented eighth consecutive year.
“With her experience working on both the state and destination marketing organization level, Kristen is a dynamic and visionary leader who understands the critical role tourism plays in Chicago’s economy,” Glenn Eden, chair of Choose Chicago’s board of directors, says. “Her track record of driving growth, fostering strategic collaborations, and championing destination marketing makes her the perfect choice to lead Choose Chicago into its next chapter.”
Choose Chicago Board Member Rich Gamble, who served as interim CEO during the transition, will support Reynolds in her onboarding.
“We’re extremely grateful for Rich’s guidance during this time of transition,” Eden says. “He has been a source of critical support for our organization and is a steadfast advocate for our city.”
Discover Long Island is ensuring leadership continuity by having Mitch Pally, chair of the board, assume the role of interim CEO following Reynolds’ departure, prior to the launch of a formal search for the organization’s new leader.
