In a significant milestone for the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), Vanessa Ledesma has been named the first female Chief Executive Officer. This announcement marks not only a new chapter for the organization but also coincides with her 25th anniversary with the CHTA.
Ledesma has been with the CHTA since 1999, starting her journey as a meeting planner. Over the years, she has climbed the ranks, eventually serving as Acting CEO and Director General for the past three years. Her appointment to the CEO position is a testament to her dedication and leadership within the organization.
In her new role, Ledesma plans to visit several Caribbean destinations, including Antigua, Barbuda, Puerto Rico, and St. Lucia. These trips aim to strengthen connections with member associations and stakeholders, while also exploring venues for the Caribbean Travel Marketplace. She hopes to foster collaboration across the region and gain valuable insights into the pressing priorities of Caribbean tourism leaders. She has served as Acting CEO and Director General for the past three years, and the announcement coincides with her 25th anniversary with the CHTA this month.
CHTA President Sanovnik Destang said, “Vanessa has been a driving force within the secretariat, providing sterling leadership as acting CEO and Director General for three years. She worked financial and operational miracles during that time. It’s only fitting that she has reached the pinnacle as our confirmed leader — and might I add — our first female CEO.”
“I am deeply honored to be entrusted with this opportunity to lead the organization that has been instrumental in shaping my professional journey. Over the past 25 years, I’ve had the privilege to work alongside some of the Caribbean’s most visionary leaders. I look forward to continuing the work of strengthening our association, advocating for the region, and fostering collaboration across our vibrant hospitality and tourism community,” said Ledesma.
“These destination visits are an exciting opportunity to meet our partners directly, understand their priorities, and identify new opportunities for growth in the region’s tourism sector,” she added. “By strengthening these relationships, we can collectively elevate the Caribbean tourism experience and drive transformative change in our industry.”
As Ledesma steps into this pivotal role, her vision for the future of Caribbean tourism promises to be both inspiring and transformative.