Convention Sales

Ron Sipes
National Account Executive

Phone: 301-315-5850
Email: rsipes@ghcvb.org

Eastern Region (Corporate/Associations) - Primary responsibility is the development of new business in the Northwest quadrant of the Greater Washington area.

What makes Houston special?

Warm tropical climate and the diversity of the people.

When your family and friends are in town where do you suggest they go? Shop? Eat?

We always go to the Galleria for the unique shopping experience and to the outlet malls for great bargains. When we are in the mood for fun and food we head to Kemah Boardwalk, on Galveston Bay, for great restaurants and rides for the children.

What's an event that you never miss in Houston?

Definitely try not to miss the Art Car parade in June.

Biography

I grew up in the suburbs of Columbus Ohio and attended THE Ohio State University for a short time before joining the Air Force as an Air Traffic Controller. After serving 4 years with the military I was hired by the FAA as an Air Traffic Controller in the civilian world and started my career in Des Moines Iowa. An unfortunate incident, called the PATCO strike with the US Government, forced me to entertain new employment opportunities in the early 80's. One of those opportunities was working the ticket counter for American Airlines in Des Moines, where I was immediately hooked on the travel industry. After 22 wonderful years with American I was offered the opportunity to work for the Greater Houston Convention Bureau, in Washington DC, as a National Account Manager for city wide business development. I've now been selling the City of Houston and surrounding areas for over 5 years and can say that has been such a wonderful experience. The city continues to evolve into a world class meeting destination and welcomes visitors from all over the world.

I currently serve on the PCMA annual meeting program committee and have previously served on the Board of Director for GWSAE, AMPS and HSMAI.

I have a wonderful 4 year old grandson that lives in Ohio and is now a part of my life.