In early June, Visit San Antonio’s board of directors named Mario J. Bass as the organization’s president and CEO after Marc Anderson departed from the role at the end of April. Bass initially stepped in as interim president and CEO while the organization searched for a new leader, after which his placement was made permanent.
“After thoughtful consideration of possible candidates, our board of directors is thrilled to announce Mario’s appointment to lead Visit San Antonio and our industry into a future of growth and evolution,” says Hope Andrade, outgoing chair of the Visit San Antonio board of directors, in a prepared statement. “Mario’s extensive experience in the tourism industry, coupled with his deep understanding of our community and culture, make him uniquely qualified to lead San Antonio’s tourism and hospitality [sectors] through the current uncertain times and period of impressive local development [while ensuring] long-term success.”
Prior to taking over as interim president and CEO and eventually permanent leader, Bass held the title of executive vice president and chief strategy officer at the Texas destination marketing organization, overseeing five departments, including destination sales, destination experience, events, membership, and river walk operations. Preceding his work in San Antonio, Bass was the chief operating officer at Visit Orlando in Florida and also held sales and marketing roles at various Marriott International hotels in Texas and New York.
“I’m grateful to the board for their confidence in my vision to prioritize San Antonio’s greatest asset—our people—as we continue to elevate our home as a premier destination for both leisure and meetings,” says Bass. “San Antonio presents an exceptional blend of culture, history, cuisine, affordability, diverse accommodations, and state-of-the-art convention options. Combined with our warm, welcoming community, the Alamo City truly stands out as a must-experience destination.”
