February 14, 2022
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information contact:
Doug Peters, President & CEO
325-677-7241
doug@abilenechamber.com
PHOTO: Robert Lopez Headshot
Abilene Chamber Announces New Vice President, Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau
Robert Lopez named the new Vice President for the Chamber’s Convention & Visitors Bureau
After a nationwide search for the next Vice President, Convention & Visitors Bureau for the Abilene Chamber of Commerce, the Chamber board is pleased to announce Robert Lopez will begin in the role March 21, 2022.
“I could not be more pleased by the search committee’s recommendation of Robert,” said President & CEO of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce Doug Peters. “Robert brings to our organization over 16 years of experience in the hospitality industry, and we know that he will bring a fresh perspective to our organization while honoring our long-standing history.”
Originally from McAllen, Texas, Robert has a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Texas Pan American. He started with the hospitality industry in college where he discovered his love for the industry before starting as the Director of Sales for Visit McAllen in 2012. Robert’s high-level work ethic and ability to grow and maintain relationships led him to his most recent role as Vice President, Visit McAllen where he managed a team of six, led international marketing efforts, spearheaded a City-CVB Co-Op marketing program, and operated as chief administrator for the McAllen Chamber’s tourism division.
“There are great things happening in Abilene right now, and I’m excited to join the team to be a part of the city’s growth,” said Robert. “I was incredibly impressed with the people I met during this process and the vision they shared for the community was exciting. I look forward to meeting and learning from the community as we explore new opportunities to drive Abilene’s tourism sector.”
Robert succeeds Nanci Liles who served the ACVB and Abilene community for 36 years.
ABOUT THE CHAMBER: Since 1908, the Abilene Chamber has served as a catalyst for business growth, a convener of leaders and influencers, and a champion for developing and promoting the economy and quality of life. For more information on the Chamber and the 1,200 businesses it represents, visit www.abilenechamber.com
ABOUT THE ACVB: Located in the T&P Depot landmark downtown, the Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB) leverages hotel tax into economic development. The ACVB’s tourism professionals harness the latest travel trends, research, and strategies to bring group and leisure visitors to Abilene to stay in local hotels, shop, dine, and enjoy sports, arts and attractions. Established as an affiliate of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce in 1970, the bureau has improved the quality of life and enhanced the Abilene visitor experience for more than 50 years.
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