The Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board has announced the appointment of Ashlee Ciora as senior director, tourism.

Ciora will be responsible for overseeing strategy and programming for half of LA Tourism’s international markets in coordination with Stephanie Nakasone, who will continue to oversee the other half. 

Ciora will report to Kathy Smits, vice president, tourism, at LA Tourism.

Most recently, Ciora served as vice president of travel industry sales for the Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau.

During her six years in Palm Springs, Ciora was responsible for the domestic and international marketing and product development for the travel industry sales department.

“Ashlee brings to the team deep experience in the tourism industry, an unbridled passion for our business and strong, existing relationships with many of our key stakeholders,” stated Smits.

“We feel she’s an excellent addition and will help the team elevate the profile of Los Angeles in our key markets.”

Ciora has spent her entire career with destination marketing organisations, beginning with the Scottsdale Convention & Visitors Bureau where she managed the travel agent and wholesale market for the US, Canada and eventually Germany, United Kingdom and Mexico.