WASHINGTON — Chris Thompson, President and CEO of Brand USA, has announced his impending retirement.

According to the organization, Thompson has decided to step down and pursue life beyond work. His final day will be May 31, 2024.

“Under Chris’ strategic guidance, the Brand USA team has kept the USA the preferred travel destination in the world,” said Todd Davidson, Chair of the Brand USA Board and CEO of Travel Oregon. “Chris’ integrity, tenacity, passion and belief in the power of the travel and tourism industry to bring prosperity to all Americans fuelled the advancement of the U.S. travel and tourism industry and established an organizational foundation of innovation, resiliency and future-focused confidence. We all wish him the very best in his retirement.”

Thompson, who first joined Brand USA on Nov. 1, 2012, added: “It has been an incredible privilege to serve as President and CEO of Brand USA. I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together, and I am confident that the organization will continue to thrive under new leadership.”

The search for a new President and CEO is commencing. The Board of Directors will be working with an executive search firm to identify a candidate that will promote the United States as a global travel destination.