Greg Deshields

Greg DeShields is a nationally respected tourism industry executive, certified hospitality educator, consultant, and nonprofit leader with more than 30 years of experience in workforce development, destination growth, and strategic partnerships across tourism, hospitality, education, and nonprofit sectors. He leads Greg DeShields Consulting LLC, offering advisory services in workforce development, tourism education, destination engagement, organizational leadership, and partnership strategy. His work connects education, industry, and communities to support sustainable growth and the development of a long-term talent pipeline across the tourism and hospitality ecosystem. Greg collaborates with organizations such as the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals and a university-based hospitality leadership center to design curriculum and workforce development initiatives. He focuses on bridging academia and industry through experiential learning, mentorship, and career development programs that prepare future hospitality professionals while strengthening talent pipelines and improving industry readiness across education and workforce systems. His efforts emphasize collaboration between institutions and industry stakeholders to support long-term professional development and sector alignment. Gregory L. DeShields serves as President of a regional Skål Philadelphia organization, providing strategic leadership focused on membership growth, leadership development, sustainability, industry engagement, and strengthening its role within the global tourism network. He also serves on an international tourism sustainability committee supporting responsible tourism, environmental stewardship, and sustainable destination practices. In addition, he hosts a leadership and purpose-driven podcast, has served as a DisruptHR speaker for two consecutive years, holds academic credentials in hospitality management, and has participated in leadership development programs.