Baltimore's tourism agency names new CEO

Kireem Swinton takes over as head of Visit Baltimore after serving as interim leader

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:10pm

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Baltimore's tourism and marketing organization, Visit Baltimore, has named Kireem Swinton as its new president and CEO. Swinton has been with the agency since 2017 and most recently served as interim CEO following the departure of the previous leader, Al Hutchinson, in July. Swinton has helped secure major events for the city, including the 2033 American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Annual Meeting & Exposition and the extension of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association's annual basketball tournaments through 2029.

Why it matters

As the leader of Baltimore's tourism agency, Swinton will play a crucial role in promoting the city as a destination and driving economic growth through increased visitor traffic and spending. His familiarity with the organization and existing relationships will allow for a smooth transition and continuity of the city's tourism strategy.

The details

Kireem Swinton has been with Visit Baltimore since 2017, serving as the vice president of sales and customer experience until being named interim CEO in July 2025 following the departure of the previous leader, Al Hutchinson, who had held the position for eight years. In his new role as president and CEO, Swinton will be responsible for overseeing the organization's efforts to promote Baltimore as a premier travel destination and secure major events and conventions.

  • Swinton was named interim CEO of Visit Baltimore in July 2025.
  • Swinton has been with Visit Baltimore since 2017.

The players

Kireem Swinton

The new president and CEO of Visit Baltimore, the city's tourism and marketing organization. Swinton has been with the agency since 2017 and previously served as the vice president of sales and customer experience.

Al Hutchinson

The former president and CEO of Visit Baltimore, who held the position for eight years before departing in July 2025.

Visit Baltimore

The quasi-public organization responsible for promoting Baltimore as a travel destination and securing major events and conventions for the city.

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The takeaway

Kireem Swinton's appointment as the new president and CEO of Visit Baltimore represents a continuation of the organization's leadership and a commitment to building on the city's recent successes in attracting major events and conventions. His familiarity with the agency and existing relationships will be crucial in driving Baltimore's tourism strategy forward.