The Greater Portland Convention + Visitors Bureau named Lynn Tillotson as the new president and chief executive, succeeding Barbara Whitten, who held the position for nearly 27 years.

Tillotson’s appointment is effective Nov. 1. She most recently held the position of director of tourism marketing and has worked for the Convention + Visitors Bureau for 12 years.

Additional Photos

Barbara Whitten, left, is being succeeded by Lynn Tillotson, right, at the Greater Portland Convention + Visitors Bureau. Courtesy Convention + Visitors Bureau

Among the organization’s work during Whitten’s tenure as the president and chief executive was developing the Harvest on the Harbor food and wine festival, and helping develop the Maine Sports Commission and the Maine Sports Foundation.

Whitten was appointed by Gov. John McKernan to serve on the Maine Tourism Commission and participate in the Maine Tourism Marketing Partnership Program, which currently helps fund the eight tourism regions and their marketing outreach programs. She was also appointed by Gov. Angus King to serve on the Northern New England Passenger Rail Service Board to help re-establish passenger service from Boston to Portland.

Tillotson was chosen to replace Whitten after a national search and a review of 55 applicants and 16 interviews, the Convention + Visitors Bureau said.

Tillotson began her career in 1988 at the Orlando World Center Marriott. She returned to Maine and joined the Convention + Visitors Bureau in 2001. During her first five years, she was the membership, advertising and special events manager before being promoted to director of tourism marketing.

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