Craig Thomas, the interim president and chief executive officer of VISIT FLORIDA, will speak about the state of Florida tourism at the next SanCap chamber monthly business meeting Wednesday, June 4. Sponsored by Fort Myers Tip-Off, it begins at 11:30 a.m. at Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa in Fort Myers.
Currently leading the state’s official destination marketing organization, Thomas has served eight years at VISIT FLORIDA, primarily as chief operating officer and general counsel. He has worked across and contributed to every area of the organization in addition to directly overseeing many different disciplines and departments. Thomas has driven long-term organizational-level strategic initiatives and substantial organizational-wide redesign, and has secured historic non-state funding. He champions regional collaboration to better align Florida markets with consumers and increase efficiency.
Thomas holds a bachelor of science degree from the University of Florida, a doctor of law degree from the Florida Coastal School of Law, and a master of business administration degree from Florida State University.
Prior to joining VISIT FLORIDA, he served as a lawyer for the Florida Department of Commerce, where he handled a variety of high-profile issues, and as an assistant general counsel at the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity.
“Stepping in upon the retirement of longtime VISIT FLORIDA leader, Dana Young, Craig has a firm handle on and deep knowledge of the organization’s workings and future projects to continue promoting the state as a top national destination,” said John Lai, president and chief executive officer of the SanCap Chamber and VISIT FLORIDA board chair. “The meeting, to be held jointly with the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, will demonstrate the effectiveness of VISIT FLORIDA campaigns and programming.”
The SanCap Chamber business lunch is a monthly networking opportunity held at various member locations. The chamber strives to provide speakers to discuss business topics relevant to the membership. Chamber members receive meeting invitations by email. Cost for luncheon attendance is $35.
Advanced registration is required to attend; walk-ins are not accepted. Register by 5 p.m. on Friday, May 30, at sanibel-captiva.org or by contacting Aaron Walton at [email protected] or 239-472-8759. Payment is due at time of registration.
ABOUT SANCAP CHAMBER
The SanCap Chamber is dedicated to promoting the prosperity of its members and preserving the quality of life of our community. The Chamber plays a key role in facilitating communication and cooperation between business, residents, and government to enhance the economic health of the islands. Its website, sanibel-captiva.org, receives over 1.3 million visits per year. For more information about the chamber, visit sanibel-captiva.org or contact John Lai, president and CEO, at 239-472-2348 or [email protected].
