submitted by Maggie McDaniel, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau
ATLANTA – Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau’s (ACVB) board of directors elected Erica Qualls-Battey as its chair in 2025. Qualls-Battey is the area general manager for Marriott International – Atlanta and general manager for Atlanta Marriott Marquis, Georgia’s largest hotel.“Erica is extremely well respected within our industry and city, and her knowledge of our business is exceptional,” said William Pate, president and CEO, ACVB. “We are excited to have her leadership as we look to continue to expand and grow our hospitality business.”
Qualls-Battey joined ACVB’s board of directors in 2006. She has been with Marriott International for more than 30 years, serving as the general manager of Atlanta Marriott Marquis for nearly 20 years. She is also very active in the local community. Qualls-Battey was recently appointed as chair of the Goodwill of North Georgia board and sits on the board of trustees for Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl and the executive board for Atlanta Hotel Council. Additionally, she is on the board of directors for Metro Atlanta Chamber, Central Atlanta Progress, International Women’s Forum and Zoo Atlanta.
She is a highly respected leader in Atlanta, recognized for her exceptional accomplishments. Her accolades include being named “Most Admired CEO” by Atlanta Business Chronicle and receiving general manager of the year awards from Marriott International, Host Hotels & Resorts and Georgia Hotel & Lodging Association.
She has received numerous awards and honors including Atlanta Business League’s Leadership Award for Volunteerism, YWCA Woman of the Year and induction into both the Atlanta Hospitality Hall of Fame and Women of Influence Hall of Fame. She is also a proud member of the Leadership Atlanta Class of 2010.
“I am deeply committed to ensuring Atlanta thrives in all aspects,” says Qualls-Battey. “My appointment as ACVB chair provides a valuable platform to further this commitment. I am eager to lead the ACVB board towards success as we prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It is my goal to make visitors feel like Atlanta is unlike any other city in the world.”
ACVB’s chair is elected by the board of directors following a nomination by the organization’s executive committee.
About Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau
Established in 1913, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB) is the official destination marketing organization for the city and serves to favorably impact Atlanta’s economy through conventions and tourism. Visit discoveratlanta.com and @discoveratlanta on social media for more information.
