Anna Marie Presutti, the President and CEO of the San Francisco Travel Association, assumed her position last fall, making history as the first woman to hold this role in the organization’s 115-year history. Presutti’s mission goes beyond boosting tourism numbers; she aims to reshape perceptions of San Francisco, particularly regarding public safety concerns.
Presutti recognizes the prevalent misconceptions about San Francisco, with visitors often expressing surprise that the city differs from its media portrayal. Upon assuming her role, she identified a pressing need for strategic public relations to address these misperceptions. Her journey to the CEO position was unexpected, initially serving on the association’s search committee and later transitioning into the interim CEO before securing the role permanently.
Presutti’s deep connection to San Francisco stems from her relocation to the city nearly 25 years ago, following a career in hospitality that commenced at Walt Disney World. Her tenure as Vice President and General Manager at Hotel Nikko San Francisco marked another groundbreaking achievement as the first female in such a leadership position within the parent company, Nikko Hotels International.
Amidst her leadership, the San Francisco Travel Association has prioritized group room bookings and convention arrangements, witnessing a steady recovery post-pandemic. Projections for 2025 indicate a substantial increase in citywide bookings, with initiatives like the “Fly for Free” program in collaboration with United Airlines aimed at attracting corporate clients for site inspections and explorations.
San Francisco’s latest tourism campaign, “Believe in San Francisco,” launched in June, encapsulates the city’s diverse offerings, from culinary experiences to historical landmarks. Presutti emphasizes the city’s unique charm, where traditional cable cars coexist with cutting-edge driverless vehicles, showcasing the blend of old-world charm and modern innovation.
San Francisco’s allure extends beyond tourism, with upcoming sporting events like the Laver Cup, Super Bowl, and FIFA World Cup slated to further elevate the city’s global profile. Presutti invites visitors to explore the city’s myriad attractions, including the Presidio Tunnel Tops, Ferry Building, and Golden Gate Park, catering to diverse budgets and interests.
As San Francisco embraces a resurgence in domestic travel, Presutti underscores the importance of experiencing the city firsthand to dispel misconceptions and rediscover its timeless appeal. The city’s rich tapestry of culture, sports, and natural beauty beckons travelers to believe in the magic of San Francisco once again.
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