Kireem Swinton Named Permanent President and CEO of Visit Baltimore

His leadership will drive economic impact and promote Baltimore's cultural assets.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:30pm

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Visit Baltimore has appointed Kireem Swinton as the organization's permanent president and chief executive officer. Swinton, who has served in the interim role since July 2025, will lead the city's official destination sales and marketing organization in its mission to improve the quality of life for Baltimore residents by attracting visitor spending that creates jobs, supports local businesses and attractions, and generates revenue for the city and state.

Why it matters

Swinton's appointment comes at a pivotal time for Baltimore's tourism industry, which has seen significant growth and success in recent years. In his permanent role, he will continue to drive economic impact, foster community partnerships, and promote the city's unique cultural assets to a global audience.

The details

Swinton has been a vital part of Visit Baltimore's leadership team since 2017, previously serving as vice president of sales and customer experience. During his tenure, he has been instrumental in securing major events, including the 2033 American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Annual Meeting and Exposition and the extension of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) tournament through 2029. His steady guidance as interim leader has ensured a seamless transition and maintained the organization's forward momentum.

  • Swinton has served in the interim role since July 2025.
  • In 2024, the city welcomed 28.5 million visitors, resulting in $4.3 billion in spending.

The players

Kireem Swinton

The newly appointed permanent president and chief executive officer of Visit Baltimore, who has been a vital part of the organization's leadership team since 2017.

Chuck Tildon

The chair of the Baltimore Convention and Tourism Board, which appointed Swinton to the permanent role.

Brandon M. Scott

The mayor of Baltimore, who praised Swinton's appointment and emphasized the importance of consistent and experienced leadership for the city's continued success in the tourism sector.

Visit Baltimore

The official sales and marketing arm for the City of Baltimore, a 501(c)(6) non-profit organization that generates economic benefits for stakeholders through the attraction of convention, group, and leisure visitors.

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What they’re saying

“The Board has full confidence that Kireem is the ideal leader to guide Visit Baltimore into its next chapter. 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.”

— Chuck Tildon, Chair of the Baltimore Convention and Tourism Board

“I am incredibly honored and excited to permanently lead this talented team and represent a city I care so deeply about. 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.”

— Kireem Swinton

“Kireem has proven himself to be a dedicated and effective leader for Visit Baltimore. 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.”

— Brandon M. Scott, Mayor of Baltimore

What’s next

Swinton will continue to drive economic impact, foster community partnerships, and promote the city's unique cultural assets to a global audience in his permanent role as president and CEO of Visit Baltimore.

The takeaway

Kireem Swinton's appointment as the permanent president and CEO of Visit Baltimore comes at a critical time for the city's tourism industry, which has seen significant growth in recent years. His leadership and deep understanding of the industry will be crucial in maintaining Baltimore's trajectory as a premier destination for meetings, conventions, and leisure travel, while also ensuring that the benefits of tourism are felt across the entire city.