Hank Todd

Vice President, Business Development, Government & Tourism

Carlson Companies

34 years in the travel industry

How did your career evolve and how did you choose your career path?
By accident. When I graduated with a degree in Business Administration I couldn't find a job. I started working for the Highway Department as a surveyor and then applied for a job in economic development with the State of Minnesota. I got the job and they assigned me to the department of tourism, which I had never heard of despite my parents and grandparents having run a small resort during the summers of my youth. Five years later I became State Tourism Director and held that position for 17 years, serving under four governors from different parties. In 1995 I made the move to Carlson Companies.

What is the greatest value gained from your TIA membership?
The greatest value has been the relationships that I have established and the friendships with so many people throughout the industry. I have been on most TIA committees (off and on) going back to the 1970's and have had a chance to Chair several of them. I have seen a great many changes and have been very happy to be a part of TIA, representing the State of Minnesota and now Carlson.

What is the greatest challenge you have faced in your job?
Balancing multiple jobs and job duties in a global environment. With heading up a business unit for Carlson (Carlson Destination Marketing Services), representing Carlson with organizations like TIA and working on strategy in Asia, my travel schedule can get a bit hectic. Balancing all of that with family is probably the biggest challenge and now, as a new grandparent, it might be more challenging.

What has been your greatest success/achievement?
After my family, I think that I was very fortunate to head up the Minnesota Tourism Program for 17 years and be appointed by 4 different governors. The second is getting a chance to use my skills and abilities when I came to Carlson 12 years ago and created a new business unit that now provides marketing services to over thirty destination organizations and travel businesses around the world.

If you could have dinner with any three people, past or present, who would they be and why?
1. Gene Rodenberry — I have always been a Star Trek fan (not a trekkie).

2. Jimi Hendrix — I have always loved his music.

3. H. G. Wells — as I have always been intrigued with the idea of time travel.

List two things that you absolutely could not live without.
1. Peanut M&M’s

2. Strawberry Shortcake made with Bisquick

TIA would like to thank Hank for providing us with a fun insight into the makeup of one of the travel industry's most experienced leaders. He has been a great asset to TIA over the years and we certainly appreciate his time and commitment to our industry.

If you, or anyone you know, are a TIA member and would like further information on our new TIA Member Profile program, please contact Helen Maplesden at hmaplesden@tia.org.