Phase one of the expansion of the Fort Worth Convention Center has opened. Photo Credit: Courtesy of the FWCC
Mitch Whitten, new president and CEO of Visit Forth WorthVisit Fort Worth has named Mitch Whitten as president and CEO of the convention and visitors bureau, charged with building on its growth in the hospitality industry and the completion of the expansion of the Fort Worth Convention Center in 2030.
Whitten has served Visit Fort Worth for 13 years, most recently as COO, and will lead the team's efforts to promote Fort Worth as a premier destination for meetings, sports, entertainment and cultural attractions.
"After a significant national search, Mitch was the clear choice to lead Visit Fort Worth," said Susan Alanis, Panther Island program director for the Tarrant County Water District, who led the search committee and is chair of the CVB's board of directors. "His track record in putting Fort Worth on the map through innovative marketing and organizational leadership will serve us well in the years ahead."
Fort Worth's strong tourism industry
As the nation's 10th largest city, Fort Worth tourism generated $3.6 billion in 2025, supporting 30,000 jobs and bringing in $280 million in state and local taxes. In his new role, Whitten will work with civic and hospitality partners to expand Fort Worth's reputation while highlighting the people and organizations that make the city welcoming and memorable.
Whitten began his career at Visit Fort Worth by leading the marketing team. Over the past 13 years, Whitten and retiring CEO Bob Jameson worked closely together as Whitten took on expanded leadership responsibilities.
"This is an important moment for Fort Worth, and I am proud of the team we have assembled to accelerate our progress on the national stage," Whitten said. "The city's investments in the convention center, in Dickies Arena, and in other hospitality venues and attractions create a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver jobs and support local business."
As president and CEO, Whitten's priorities will be expanding business in the convention center and beyond, and building on the success of the Fort Worth Sports Commission, Film Commission, Hear Fort Worth and the city's growth as a leisure destination.