SAN DIEGO, CA – The San Diego Tourism Authority (SDTA) announced today the appointment of Letty Canizalez as its new vice president of sales. Canizalez brings to the role over 25 years of experience in the hospitality and tourism industry with a demonstrated track record of exceeding goals and leading teams in the sales, catering and events sector.
As SDTA's vice president of sales, Canizalez will lead the organization's hotel sales efforts and support the sales team in engaging with its hotel partners. Canizalez spent the last 14 years as the director of sales at the Hard Rock Hotel in San Diego, where she was a key strategist and leader in the hotel operation, driving key initiatives that resulted in growth in RevPAR and ADR.
"We're thrilled to welcome Letty to our team," said Kavin Schieferdecker, chief sales officer at SDTA. "Her extensive sales and events experience, proven leadership skills, and innovative approach to sales will undoubtedly help us further position San Diego as a premier business travel destination."
In addition to her knowledge of San Diego's downtown market, Canizalez has a great understanding of the destination's subregions from time spent at the Hilton San Diego Sales Complex in Mission Valley, the Loews Coronado Bay Resort, and with the Hyatt Hotels in Mission Bay and La Jolla.
"I’m excited to begin this new chapter with the San Diego Tourism Authority,” said Canizalez. “Having been a strong supporter of SDTA for many years, I am grateful for the opportunity to now work alongside their incredible team and hotel partners in showcasing San Diego as a top choice for businesses and meeting professionals."
Please click here to download Letty Canizalez's headshot.
About the San Diego Tourism Authority
The San Diego Tourism Authority is a private, non-profit, mutual benefit corporation composed of approximately 920 member organizations, businesses, local governments, and individuals seeking a better community through the visitor industry. San Diego Tourism Authority members include tourism-related entities in such categories as lodging, dining, arts, attractions, shopping, and transportation, among others, as well as other companies indirectly involved in tourism. Visit sandiego.org to learn more.