Tuesday, February 18, 2025

Williamsburg Tourism Council Announces New CEO

Edward Harris (Visit Williamsburg)

WILLIAMSBURG — The Williamsburg Tourism Council announced that Edward Harris will join the organization as Chief Executive Officer, effective June 25.

Harris most recently served as President and CEO of Discover Lancaster in Pennsylvania, bringing more than 20 years of marketing and tourism experience to the council, according to an announcement of the hiring.

Prior to Discover Lancaster, Harris was the Chief Marketing Officer for the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board, and earlier in his career, he was in marketing management and brand development roles for global corporate entities.

The Williamsburg Tourism Council noted Harris has been a prominent leader in the tourism industry, guiding Discover Lancaster through a transformative period of growth since June 2020. Harris led the organization in implementing innovative marketing strategies and committed to promoting regional culture, it said.

“Joining the Williamsburg Tourism Council as CEO is an exciting opportunity, and I am honored to be selected for this role. The Historic Triangle region is one of the marquee destinations of the world for U.S. and international travelers.  A strong tourism industry is vital to the local economy, and I’m looking forward to working with the team at Visit Williamsburg to promote this beautiful region’s rich history and vibrant culture,” said Harris.

Harris was selected as CEO following a comprehensive search process led by the Williamsburg Tourism Council’s Search Committee, according to the council. Ruth Larson, Chair of Visit Williamsburg, expressed enthusiasm for Harris’s appointment, citing his proven leadership and vision for the future of tourism in the Greater Williamsburg area.

“We are thrilled to welcome Edward Harris as the new CEO of Visit Williamsburg. His extensive experience and impressive qualifications in the tourism and marketing industry make him the perfect fit for this role. We are confident that under his leadership, Visit Williamsburg will continue to thrive and attract visitors to our beautiful and historic region,” said Larson.

The Williamsburg Tourism Council said Harris’s extensive expertise will play a pivotal role in driving its strategic goals, focusing on enhancing the region’s visibility and promoting its unique attractions, accommodations, and experiences.

For more information about the Williamsburg Tourism Council (Visit Williamsburg), visit visitwilliamsburg.com.

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