Destination DC Announces New Executive Team and Senior Staff Members

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Destination DC Announces New Executive Team and Senior Staff Members

12/6/2024
WASHINGTON, DC – Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organization for Washington, DC, today announced key promotions at the executive team and senior staff levels. Dianna Waldroup has been named vice president, convention services and Letizia Sirtori is vice president, tourism and global development, both joining the executive team. Alex Gnafakis is promoted within senior staff to senior creative director. Lindsay Hill has been promoted to director of visitor experience and group tour and joins DDC’s senior staff.

“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.”

Joining the Executive Team

Dianna Waldroup – VP, Convention Services
With over 35 years at DDC, Waldroup leads a dedicated hospitality team that provides critical support to meeting professionals, ensuring the successful execution of meetings and conventions of all sizes. Additionally, she oversees a team of over 120 temporary personnel, known as “Redcoats,” who provide on-site assistance at events. Waldroup’s continued close relationships with hospitality leaders across the community contributes to her success. She is a critical part of the sales process as she helps clients succeed and ensures they return. Her new role will enhance customer experience and strengthen partnerships with local stakeholders. In 2020, Waldroup was honored as one of Connect Corporate’s “15 Over 50,” recognizing her contributions and leadership in the field.

“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 – VP, Tourism and Global Development
In her 17-year tenure at DDC, Sirtori’s leadership and strategic planning has led to her success in the Tourism Sales and Visitor Experience department and in the global community. She focuses on the tourism development of international markets and the creation of strategic relationships with airlines, corporations and other destinations. Sirtori also manages the international representation offices for Washington, DC in the UK, Mexico, Brazil, China, Australia, India and Japan. She is a board member of the International Inbound Travel Association.

“This role marks both a personal and professional milestone for me,” Sirtori said. “DDC has truly become my second family, a place where I’ve had the privilege to grow alongside incredible colleagues and contribute to the global expansion of our efforts. It’s been rewarding to witness the transformation of our team and to play a role in shaping our strategy as we continue to lead innovative tourism initiatives on a global scale.”

Senior Staff Promotions

Alex Gnafakis – Senior Creative Director
Gnafakis has led DDC’s in-house creative team in the development of award-winning visual content, bringing DDC’s and Washington, DC’s brand stories to life. Over the past eight years, her creative assets have reached domestic and international audiences as well as meeting planners and members. Gnafakis’ strategic leadership and branding expertise guided the organization through the development of the award-winning “There’s Only One DC” campaign, the largest and most comprehensive evolution of DDC’s brand messaging and visual style in recent history. “Our city inspires my creativity each and every day, and it’s truly my greatest pleasure to share DC’s stories with the world,” Gnafakis said. “I look forward to growing with DDC and continuing to make magic with the best team in the business.”

Lindsay Hill – Director, Visitor Experience and Group Tour
Joining DDC in 2012, Hill’s strategy and vision has led to new programs such as member onboarding, travel agent training, accessibility, luxury and an extensive university and welcome center portfolio. Hill is the primary contact for all group tour operators and she leads the charge working with the student market. She travels the world to help shape the perspective on what visitors to Washington, DC want and need. In 2015, she received the Group Travel Leader’s “Next Gen in Group Travel” award, highlighting her dedication to the industry.

“I began as a coordinator, so the dedication that DDC puts into staff development is tremendous,” Hill said. “I am beyond excited to focus on ensuring all visitors to Washington, DC have the best possible experience. From the eighth-grade field trip attendee dreaming of DC to helping schools craft trip itineraries, my position is a dream come true.”

About Destination DC
Destination DC, the official destination marketing organization for the nation’s capital, is a private, non-profit membership organization committed to marketing the area as a premier global convention, tourism and special events destination with a special emphasis on the arts, cultural and historic communities. www.washington.org.

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