LOUISVILLE, Ky.—Louisville Tourism president and CEO Cleo Battle has been named the 2026 recipient of Meeting Professionals International’s (MPI) Industry Leader Award, recognizing his contributions to the global meetings and tourism industry.
The award was presented during MPI’s World Education Congress, honoring Battle for his decades-long career, commitment to servant leadership, and impact on destination marketing.
MPI selected Battle for his lifelong contributions to the hospitality and meetings industry. As president and CEO of Louisville Tourism, he has helped advance the organization’s focus beyond visitor numbers to emphasize broader economic and community impact while advocating for greater representation and opportunities for diverse professionals and businesses. His service to MPI, including a term as chair of the International Board of Directors, also contributed to his selection.
Battle’s path to tourism began after an injury ended his aspirations of competing in the Olympics as a collegiate hurdler at the University of Colorado. A meeting with a college counselor led him to pursue hotel and restaurant management, launching a hospitality career spanning more than 30 years.
He began as a bellman with Embassy Suites and advanced through leadership positions with major hospitality brands, including Holiday Inn and Sheraton. Battle spent 17 years with the Richmond Convention & Visitors Bureau before joining Louisville Tourism in 2013 as executive vice president. He was named president and CEO of Louisville Tourism in 2021.
During his tenure at Louisville Tourism, Battle has helped shape Louisville’s profile as a visitor destination, particularly through the growth of the city’s urban bourbon tourism. The expansion of downtown bourbon attractions has strengthened Louisville’s appeal as a walkable destination for leisure travelers and meeting attendees.
Battle has also championed workforce development and inclusion initiatives throughout his career. He helped lead efforts to establish the University of Louisville’s first hospitality management program and continues to support programs that connect students with tourism and hospitality careers.
“Tourism is about more than heads in beds—it’s about creating meaningful economic and community impact,” Battle says. “I’m honored to be part of an industry that brings people together and creates opportunity for so many.”
Battle’s leadership within MPI spans more than two decades of membership and service, including his role as chair of the association’s International Board of Directors. Colleagues throughout the industry recognize him for his commitment to mentorship, collaboration, and developing future leaders.
“I love this industry and MPI has been my association home,” Battle adds. “I believe we should all raise our hands and give back to an industry that has given so much to us. Leadership roles are your opportunity to leave a legacy for the industry and set the table for the next generation. This recognition truly belongs to the incredible team at Louisville Tourism and the many mentors, peers, and partners who have supported me along the way. Together, we continue to move our city and our industry forward.”
