Take 5: Vanessa Claspill on Winning Collectively

New LVCVA chief sales officer brings brand experience

From hotels to the top convention city in the country, the through line for new Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority Chief Sales Officer Vanessa Claspill is bringing everyone together to elevate meetings and events across the destination. Everyone wins when events are sustainable, memorable and effective. We asked Claspill what’s next.

 You have worked at the major hotel brands, such as IHG, Hilton, Starwood and Davidson. What did you take away from those different takes on hospitality, and what was it like to make the move to a DMO?

From the brand space to the management company, I learned the importance of scale, loyalty, innovation and entrepreneurial agility—lessons that gave me a well-rounded view of how hotels balance guest experience, owner expectations and brand promise. Moving into a DMO role was a natural evolution. Now, instead of representing one brand or portfolio, I represent the entire destination—bringing partners together and applying those lessons at scale to position Las Vegas as the premier meetings and events city.

What excites me most is that success here is collective; when we win business, every hotel, every venue and every partner shares in the impact.

Las Vegas hospitality is big business, but it is also a small community that takes care of each other. How will you enhance collaboration citywide?

Hospitality is in the DNA of Las Vegas, and what takes place behind the scenes to make this destination shine is exceptional. My role is to build on the already strong alignment between resorts, meeting spaces, attractions and local partners. Collaboration is how we create a seamless experience for our customers and guests. We want our partners and planners to feel like Las Vegas isn’t just a city they book; it’s a partner they can count on.

“Hospitality is in the DNA of Las Vegas, and what takes place behind the scenes to make this destination shine is exceptional.”

Las Vegas Convention Center is completing a massive renovation and expansion. What role do you see conferences having in the future mix of leisure, entertainment, sports and business?

Conferences and trade shows are central to the Las Vegas story. The expansion of Las Vegas Convention Center is not just about more space but about creating an environment that aligns with and complements what this city is all about: innovation and world-class experiences. Meetings here don’t exist in isolation; they’re enhanced by the energy of Las Vegas and all that’s offered off the showroom floor. That blend makes conferences in Las Vegas more productive, more engaging and ultimately more valuable.

Read More: Headlines vs. Reality: What Las Vegas Meetings Look Like Now

Las Vegas is much more sustainable than many people realize with the major properties investing in alternative energy sources and waste management. Any new innovation stories you can share?

Many people are surprised to learn just how much our properties and venues are doing in terms of sustainability. From large-scale solar initiatives to water conservation and robust recycling programs, our resorts lead the industry in sustainable practices. For example, the Fountains of Bellagio are fed from groundwater and pool drainage from the O Theater, avoiding the use of municipal water. Our community is constantly innovating in ways that make a real impact, and it’s something we’re committed to showcasing more clearly to planners and visitors.

What message do you have for meeting planners considering the city?

Las Vegas is not one-dimensional. You may think you know what to expect, but the depth and diversity of what the city delivers goes far beyond The Strip. Whether you’re looking for cutting-edge venues, world-class dining, immersive entertainment or turnkey logistics, you’ll find it here—and often with better value than you imagined. The scale of options means we can meet planners where they are, whether it’s a 50-person board retreat or a 100,000-person convention.