New CVB leader held similar job in Virginia

The new president and CEO of the Spokane Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau has held the same position for the destination marketing organization for the Virginia wine country outside of Washington, D.C.

Cheryl Kilday, who will start her new job Aug. 23, has served as president and CEO of Visit Loudoun since 1996. She has 25 years of experience in the tourism industry, including work in hotels, convention and meeting planning and event management.

Kilday graduated from Willamette University in Salem, Ore.

Kilday’s predecessor at the Spokane CVB, Harry Sladich, resigned in April to take a senior-level job with Spokane-based Red Lion Hotels Corp. The CVB conducted a national search for his replacement.

The Spokane CVB markets the region as a destination for conventions and leisure travelers.