We are thrilled to welcome Kevin Hinton as our guest today.
Kevin, who has over 20 years of experience in the global meetings and travel industry, was appointed as Managing Director of Group Travel for the U.S. Travel Association last year. He joins us today to share his career trajectory and dive into the significant role he now plays within the organization.
Tune in today to hear about his impressive career and learn how he is shaping the future of group travel.
His Career Journey
Kevin began his career with a family legacy in the hotel and travel industry. He was shaped early by his Peace Corps work in West Africa, where he helped women form a credit cooperative. Returning to Chicago, he gained hands-on experience at the Chicago Hilton before moving into group travel sales. His involvement with MPI culminated in Kevin serving as its international board chair, which marked his deep commitment to the meetings and events industry. Over time, he transitioned from technical roles to leadership positions, where strategic communication and relationship-building became central. Known for clear messaging and effective advocacy, he has used his industry knowledge and leadership skills to drive growth and influence throughout his career.
His Role at the U.S. Travel Association
At the U.S. Travel Association, Kevin leads efforts to advocate for and grow the group travel sector, ensuring that the $130 billion industry receives the attention and resources it needs within broader travel policy and development discussions. His role includes engaging with industry stakeholders, shaping strategic messaging, supporting initiatives that improve the travel experience, and highlighting the essential role travel plays within the U.S. economy.
The Power and Value of Face-to-Face Meetings
Kevin highlights the importance of face-to-face meetings across industries, from business alignment to scientific research. Despite ongoing doubt, he stresses the need to continuously communicate the value of in-person meetings to decision-makers, media, and policymakers to help secure support and funding for the industry.
Educating External Audiences
Kevin points out the importance of speaking the language of business leaders, media, and policymakers, who may not fully understand the meetings industry. His team works to frame the value of face-to-face interactions in terms that those audiences appreciate, helping to build broader support beyond industry insiders.
Advocacy Efforts with Government
The U.S. Travel Association regularly meets with Congress and the administration to advocate for policies that promote travel and meetings. They discuss various issues, such as reducing visa wait times and improving security screening processes, as key priorities. Despite some scrutiny of government employee travel, policymakers generally recognize the importance of face-to-face meetings.
Preparing for Major Events
A Presidential Task Force was established to enhance travel and security in preparation for the FIFA World Cup and the Olympics in the U.S. These events are anticipated to attract tens of millions of visitors and generate billions in revenue. The task force aims to reduce barriers and improve the travel experience to maximize economic benefits.
Importance of Youth and Sports Travel
Youth sports leagues and competitions are a growing segment within the group travel industry, contributing a significant economic impact to cities and convention centers. Kevin highlights the importance of helping destinations understand and capture that market through better data and more accessible booking processes.
How Small Business Owners Can Help
Kevin advises small business owners within the industry to champion purposeful meetings with clear goals and measurable impact. By understanding and communicating the value of face-to-face events and supporting the industry with accurate data, they can help strengthen the overall travel and meetings ecosystem.
Bio:
Kevin M. Hinton, CAE
Managing Director, Group Travel
U.S. Travel Association
Kevin has over 20 years of experience working in various roles within the global meetings and travel industry. He currently serves as Managing Director for Group Travel at the U.S. Travel Association, based in Washington, D.C. He is responsible for leading the advocacy organization’s strategy for growing group travel to and within the US.
Kevin has been a frequent speaker to audiences worldwide about the value of face-to-face meetings and has served as International Board Chair for Meeting Professionals International (MPI), CEO of SITE (Society for Incentive Travel Excellence), and a Board member of the Events Industry Council (EIC). He earned the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential in 2023.
Kevin regularly practices yoga, is an avid tennis player and skier, and has two daughters, Amber (24) and Sophia (18), who regularly keep him in line.
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