South Ripley grad named Chief Marketing Officer for Brand USA

Will be responsible for attracting tourists to the United States

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – A South Ripley grad has been named the new Chief Marketing Officer for Brand USA, the destination marketing organization for the United States. 

Leah Chandler graduated from South Ripley in 1998 and has spent more than two decades in branding, advertising and destination marketing. 

Before joining Brand USA, she served as the Chief Marketing Officer for Discover Puerto Rico, where she re-positioned the brand, laying the foundation for four years of record-breaking tourism growth. 

She previously served as the Chief Marketing Officer for Explore Branson as well. 

At Brand USA, Chandler will oversee the organization’s brand, advertising, content, digital marketing, and research efforts. The goal will be to inspire international travel to the United States through innovative campaigns.

Her arrival comes at a pivotal moment as the United States’ international inbound travel industry shifts from recovery to growth.

“I am honored to join Brand USA at such a transformational time for the industry,” said Chandler. “The opportunity to lead global marketing efforts for the USA—one of the most diverse and dynamic travel destinations in the world—is thrilling. I look forward to working with Fred and the entire team to bolster our efforts to inspire travelers worldwide and drive meaningful economic impact.”

Throughout her career, Chandler has earned numerous awards, certifications, and industry recognitions.

In 2024, Skift honored her as one of the "Top Women Shaping Travel’s Future" in its inaugural "Generation Next" list. That same year, the American Marketing Association named her "Nonprofit Marketer of the Year", recognizing her outstanding contributions to the field of marketing.

Additionally, Chandler earned her Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) credential in 2014.

Brand USA is a public-private partnership that was established by the Travel Promotion Act of 2010. They have been responsible for attracting an additional 8M visitors to the United States at no cost to taxpayers.