submitted by Explore Asheville
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Explore Asheville has named Ed Silver vice president of business development, effective Monday, Sept. 8, 2025.
Silver has more than 25 years of experience in the travel and hospitality industry. He has held executive leadership roles at Flight Centre Travel Group, iSeatz and the Global Business Travel Association, where he led global sales and marketing. He also cofounded Lodging.com, worked with brands through Travel Again Advisory and served as a frequent speaker at national industry conferences.
In his new role, Silver will lead Explore Asheville’s business development strategy with a focus on growing meetings and group travel, creating new partnerships and advancing efforts tied to the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority’s strategic goals. He will also work with local businesses and community partners to strengthen Asheville’s visitor economy and deliver benefits for residents and visitors.
“Ed brings a proven ability to grow business, build relationships and lead teams,” said Vic Isley, president and CEO of Explore Asheville and the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority. “With his thoughtful vision and leadership, we are confident he will amplify Asheville’s appeal and deliver measurable results for our community.”
On joining Explore Asheville, Silver said, “I’m honored to join Explore Asheville and partner with such a talented team. Asheville is a destination with incredible energy and creativity, and I look forward to building new partnerships that grow meetings and group travel while delivering benefits for both our visitors and the local community.”
Silver succeeds Michael Kryzanek, who is retiring after a tenure that expanded Asheville’s business development and sales programs, elevating the Asheville area as a compelling and meaningful place for business travel and events.
About Explore Asheville and the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority
Explore Asheville is the official destination marketing and management organization for one of the most deeply rooted, creative communities in the southeast. Explore Asheville is powered by the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority, a public authority that has been investing in and building community since 1983. The authority has committed more than $100 million to more than 50 community capital projects, including sports venues.
