Visit Wichita is pleased to announce the addition of Drake Holmes to its team as a Group Sales Representative, where he will play a vital role in identifying and attracting events and group business to the Wichita area.
In his new role, Holmes will be responsible for researching markets and identifying groups and events that are a strong fit for Wichita. He will lead outreach efforts, initiate conversations with event organizers and build lasting relationships to help grow Wichita’s reputation as a premier destination for conventions, meetings and events.
“I am most looking forward to building relationships and promoting Wichita as an ideal destination for meetings, conventions and events of all kinds,” said Holmes.
Holmes brings a diverse professional background to the team, combining experience in education, sales and hospitality. He earned his bachelor’s degree in physical education and health from Kansas State University in 2022 and began his career as a Social Studies teacher at Garden Plain Elementary School, where he earned the Recognition of Excellence Award from USD 267 during his first year.
His career later shifted toward sales and hospitality, where he served as an Account Executive at Access Systems and most recently as Director of Sales at the Hampton Inn in Goddard, Kansas. In his role at the Hampton Inn, Holmes managed multiple departments and maintained strong relationships with business travelers, sports teams and hotel guests.
“I believe my strengths in relationship building, communication and leadership make me a great fit for this role,” said Holmes. “I’m excited to help bring more visitors and events to Wichita and showcase what makes this city a great place to meet and explore.”
Visit Wichita is proud to welcome Holmes and looks forward to the impact he will have in furthering the organization’s mission to drive economic growth through travel and tourism.
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About Visit Wichita
Visit Wichita markets the Greater Wichita area and advocates for the city as a destination, increasing travel and tourism as a key economic driver for the city, county, region and state. Visit Wichita is led by president and CEO Susie Santo, and in 2024 travel and tourism contributed more than $1.5 billion in economic impact to the greater Wichita area.