Paul Beirnes Named ‘Top 25’ Extraordinary Mind

The Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB is honored to announce that Paul Beirnes, Executive Director, has been named by the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) as one of the “Top 25 extraordinary Minds” for 2022. This is the 20th year HSMAI has compiled the list, which annually recognizes exemplary achievement and leadership in the hospitality sales, marketing, revenue optimization and distribution. 

“The ‘Top 25’ is our annual hot list that celebrates sales, marketing, revenue optimization, and distribution leaders and innovators in our industry,” said Robert A. Gilbert, CHME, CHBA, President and CEO of HMAI. “Throughout the pandemic and into the recovery, these extraordinary professionals have risen to each challenge and met unprecedented circumstances with creativity, strength, and ingenuity. These leaders are empowering recovery.”

Beirnes is highly accomplished as an innovative destination marketing and brand strategist who has consistently demonstrated the ability to elevate the performance of global travel brands. His career includes leadership roles with The Walt Disney Company, Visit Orlando, Hilton Worldwide and currently, as the Executive Director of the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB since 2020.

Additionally, he serves on the Board of Directors of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, Florida Gulf Coast University President’s Advisors Circle on Workforce and Economic Development and is a recipient of the 2022 HSMAI President’s Award (Recovery Campaign). Paul holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Guelph in Canada.

“I am extremely honored to be named one of the “Top 25 Extraordinary Minds” for 2022 by HSMAI. To be included among this outstanding group of strategic and visionary marketing leaders is an undeniable privilege,” said Paul Beirnes, Executive Director, Naples, Marco Island, Everglades CVB. “The challenges each of us embraced over the past few years whether a pandemic, economic uncertainties or navigating strategies to reflect a remarkable recovery post-Hurricane Ian, we have all turned setbacks into comebacks for our organizations, teams, and destinations. I look forward to the knowledge-sharing and camaraderie that being part of this group will bring.”

The “Top 25” will be honored in person at a reception at the JW Marriott LA Live in Los Angeles on February 23. The reception will be held in conjunction with the HSMAI Adrian Awards Celebration, which recognizes the winners of the largest and most prestigious competition in global travel marketing.