Rossi Ralenkotter's tenure at the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority

Rossi Ralenkotter has been CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority since 2004. He oversaw development of the “What happens here, stays here” advertising campaign. It is widely regarded as one of the most successful destination marketing efforts in tourism history.  His tenure has been marked by unprecedented tourism growth but also controversy. A Review-Journal investigation has questioned the agency’s recent spending and perks for board members. In April 2017, the newspaper’s review of financial records showed lavish expenses on high-end entertainment, gifts for employees and trips overseas for board members. Earlier this year, Ralenkotter learned that he was cancer free and began considering life without the pressures of running the agency, a close friend said. Under Ralenkotter’s leadership, the convention authority has become one of the most powerful public agencies in the state.