BALTIMORE—Visit Baltimore recently appointed Kireem Swinton as its new president and CEO. Swinton had served in an interim role since July 2025.
Swinton was selected by the Baltimore Convention and Tourism Board to lead the city’s official destination sales and marketing organization. He has been part of Visit Baltimore’s leadership team since 2017, having previously served as vice president of sales and customer experience. During his tenure, he helped secure major events, including the 2033 American Society of Association Executives Annual Meeting and Exposition and an extension of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association tournament through 2029.
“The Board has full confidence that Kireem is the ideal leader to guide Visit Baltimore into its next chapter,” says Chuck Tildon, chair of the Baltimore Convention and Tourism Board. “During his time as interim president and CEO, Kireem demonstrated exceptional leadership, a deep understanding of our industry, and an unwavering commitment to Baltimore. His efforts have been crucial in maintaining our city’s trajectory as a premier destination for meetings, conventions, and leisure travel. We are thrilled to make his appointment permanent.”
Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott adds, “Kireem has proven himself to be a dedicated and effective leader for Visit Baltimore,” he says. “His commitment to our city and his expertise in the tourism industry are exactly what we need to keep attracting visitors to Baltimore. I have no doubt that under his leadership, ‘Charm City’ will continue to succeed as a destination for tourists all over the country and the world.”
Swinton’s appointment comes as Baltimore’s tourism sector continues to grow. The city welcomed 28.5 million visitors in 2024, generating $4.3 billion in spending.
“I am incredibly honored and excited to permanently lead this talented team and represent a city I care so deeply about,” Swinton says. “Baltimore is a city of resilience, innovation, and rich culture, and its story is one I am proud to tell. I look forward to continuing our work with city partners and community members to amplify our positive narratives, attract new and repeat visitors, city-wide conventions, and ensure that tourism benefits every corner of our great city.”
