In a significant leadership transition for Wyoming’s tourism sector, Jim Walter, CDME, has been appointed as the new President and CEO of Visit Cheyenne, the destination marketing organization for Cheyenne and Laramie County. This announcement comes after Walter served as Interim President and CEO since November 1, 2025, following the departure of Domenic Bravo, who took on the role of Executive Director at the Wyoming Office of Tourism.
Walter, a seasoned tourism professional with over 22 years of experience in destination management and marketing, joined Visit Cheyenne in 2013 as Director of Convention Sales. He progressed through key positions, including Director of Sales and Marketing, before becoming Vice President in 2020. During his tenure, Walter has been instrumental in driving innovative initiatives that boost local tourism, such as the popular Hell on Wheels Rodeo and Chuck Wagon Dinner Series, which have drawn visitors and enhanced Cheyenne’s reputation as an authentic Western destination.
Walter’s career began in New York, where he worked at the Syracuse Chamber of Commerce before serving as Executive Director of Madison County Tourism for a decade. His move to Wyoming marked a personal and professional shift, embracing the region’s cowboy culture. Walter has had a visible presence as a speaker at travel industry events including Select Traveler Conference and established himself as the recognizable figure and go-to representative of Cheyenne.
In his LinkedIn announcement, Walter expressed enthusiasm: “I am excited to announce that I’ve been chosen to lead Visit Cheyenne as its next President and CEO. I follow the legacy of two incredible mentors and leaders in Darren Rudloff, CDME and Domenic Bravo, CDME, CPM. I am excited to lead our high-performing team as we continue to do bold things that show real world results.” He also thanked industry colleagues and the Visit Cheyenne board for their support during the selection process.
Altho Walters new position is inclusive of the wider tourism industry, it is encouraging that he has strong ties to the leisure group as well as meeting and convention markets. “Cheyenne is a great destination for group travel and it is exciting work with a staff that is able to deliver the best experience possible for group travel organizers and meeting planners seeking Cheyenne as a destination.” Walters states.
“I have had the pleasure of working with Jim at travel industry conferences and can attest that Visit Cheyenne found a great leader for its tourism future” stated Charlie Presley, president of Group Travel Family of Brands
This appointment positions Walter to build on Visit Cheyenne’s successes, including record tourism growth in recent years. As Cheyenne attracts investments from tech giants like Meta and Microsoft, Walter’s leadership is expected to further elevate the area as a hub for business, conventions, and leisure travel. With his deep roots in tourism and commitment to innovative marketing, Walter is poised to steer Visit Cheyenne into a dynamic future, ensuring the organization continues to promote the unique charm of Wyoming’s capital city.
PHOTO: Jim Walter in front of the “High Plains Drifter” mural at the Sidles Co. building in Cheyenne || Photo by Janelle Rose Photography