Visit Fresno County announced today that Nicole Hankton, CDME, has been appointed President & Chief Executive Officer. Her first day is November 2.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am thrilled to welcome Nicole to Fresno County. She is an authentic and empowering leader,” said Visit Fresno County Board Chair Cody Johnson. “We look forward to the energy and leadership she will bring to this organization and the community.”

Hankton brings a wealth of experience in destination marketing, hospitality, and community partnerships to Visit Fresno County. She served as the Executive Vice President of Visit Walnut Creek, overseeing its marketing, branding, and operations. Hankton led the organization through a destination rebrand and expanded Walnut Creek’s leisure and sports tourism initiatives.

Before Walnut Creek, Hankton led marketing and public relations for the San Leandro Chamber of Commerce, Oakland Marriott Hotel and Convention Center, and the Claremont Club & Spa, a Fairmont Hotel. She also holds the Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) credential, the tourism industry's highest individual educational achievement.

Fresno County tourism continues to grow, with visitor spending reaching $1.82 billion during 2025 and supporting 17,000 local jobs. In her new role, Hankton will lead Visit Fresno County’s efforts to strengthen sports, conferences, and leisure visitation while continuing to build community partnerships.

“I am absolutely thrilled and honored to accept the role of Chief Executive Officer of Visit Fresno County. This is an exciting opportunity to build upon the incredible work already being done to elevate Fresno County as a destination,” said Hankton. “I’m excited to be working alongside the Visit Fresno County team, our industry partners, community leaders, and hotel leaders to strengthen partnerships, drive visitation, and showcase all that makes Fresno County such a unique and vibrant place to visit, live, and do business.”

The mission of Visit Fresno County, a destination management organization, is to promote Fresno County to all travel markets. In partnership with the hospitality industry, Visit Fresno County generates increased visitor spending, local tax receipts and job development.