Six Questions with Shaun Yates

As Oklahoma City continues to attract major sporting events, conventions and visitors from around the world, Shaun Yates is helping shape the city's next chapter. Recently promoted to senior vice president of tourism development for Visit Oklahoma City, the tourism division of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, Yates now leads the organization's efforts to grow one of the region's key economic drivers. 

We recently sat down with Yates to discuss his new role, Oklahoma City's momentum and what's ahead for the city's tourism industry. 

Congratulations on the promotion. What does stepping into the role of senior vice president of tourism development mean to you? 

Yates: It's incredibly humbling. I don't see this as an individual accomplishment as much as a reflection of the team we've built and the relationships we've developed throughout the community. Those partnerships have created a foundation of trust that allows us to continue moving Oklahoma City forward together. I'm excited for the opportunity to build on that momentum. 

You've been part of Visit Oklahoma City for several years. How has your experience prepared you for this role? 

Yates: I've had the opportunity to work alongside so many talented people while helping attract meetings, sporting events and visitors to Oklahoma City. Every experience has reinforced how important relationships are in this industry. Working with our partners across the community has given me a strong understanding of what makes Oklahoma City competitive and where we have opportunities to continue growing.  

What are your top priorities as you begin leading the tourism development team? 

Yates: My biggest priority is continuing to build on the culture we've created. We have an incredible team, and I want to make sure we're supporting them while continuing to strengthen relationships with our stakeholders. Those partnerships are what allow us to pursue new opportunities and create meaningful economic impact for Oklahoma City.  

Oklahoma City has experienced tremendous momentum in tourism over the past several years. Where do you see the biggest opportunities for continued growth? 

Yates: One of the things that excites me most is that we're seeing growth across all four of our tourism sectors: meetings and conventions, sports, equine and leisure travel. That doesn't happen everywhere. Continuing to grow each of those sectors gives us the opportunity to diversify our visitor economy while continuing to introduce new audiences to Oklahoma City.  

How do tourism and economic development work together to strengthen Oklahoma City's future? 

Yates: Tourism and economic development really go hand in hand. Every visitor, convention and sporting event supports local businesses, creates jobs and generates economic impact. Visit Oklahoma City's brand has reached a point where we can be even more strategic about how we leverage that recognition, and that benefits the entire community.  

What excites you most about where Oklahoma City is headed over the next five to 10 years? 

Yates: The momentum. It feels like we're entering a really unique chapter for Oklahoma City. Opportunities like LA28 are incredibly exciting, but they're just one piece of what's happening here. We have strong partners, an engaged community and momentum across every part of our tourism industry. I'm excited to help make the most of this moment and continue creating opportunities that have a lasting impact on our city.