Durango, CO – Patricia O’Brien is the new Executive Director for the Durango Area Tourism Office (DATO). Ms. O'Brien brings more than 20 years of experience in marketing, business development, and management.
O’Brien welcomes the opportunity to lead the DATO, saying, “I have a passion for Durango and I understand the critical role tourism plays in the prosperity of our community. Our revamped team is eager to build on the current system and increase our marketing efforts and ultimately increase overnight visitation in La Plata County.”
Raised in Durango, Patti later studied economics at CSU and then received her business finance degree at California State University, Long Beach. She spent 12 years as CEO of VersaType, Inc. a digital communications and marketing agency.
Prior to DATO, Patti owned, operated, and sold a local ladies fitness center, then represented numerous Durango businesses as Regional Account Manager for Ballantine Digital Media and most recently expanded the group sales program at DATO as the Group Sales Manager.
“Travel industry trends demonstrate a global demand for the many authentic experiences our destination offers,” explains O’Brien. “Travelers are looking for hands-on or behind the scenes experiences and we certainly have a wide array to offer.”
The Durango Area Tourism Office is a not for profit organization operating with the mission to promote Durango and La Plata County’s multitude of tourism attractions, events and services. 1-800-GO DURANGO, www.durango.org