Seasoned tourism leader to advance collaborative growth across the Commonwealth
Richmond, VA – Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) announced today the promotion of Becky Nave to Vice President of Partnership Marketing.
In this role, Nave will lead VTC’s cooperative marketing, industry grant programs, tourism product development, and strategic planning initiatives across the Commonwealth. She will also provide executive leadership to a statewide team focused on expanding tourism investment, fostering industry partnerships, and driving long-term economic impact for Virginia.
“Becky’s promotion to Vice President of Partnership Marketing reflects both her exceptional leadership and her deep commitment to advancing tourism across the Commonwealth,” said Rita McClenny, President and CEO of Virginia Tourism Corporation. “She has a proven ability to align strategy, advocacy, and investment to strengthen Virginia’s tourism economy, and we are confident she will continue to elevate our statewide impact in this important leadership role.”
With more than two decades of experience in destination development, community economic revitalization, and marketing, Nave most recently served as VTC’s Director of Destination Development and Advocacy and has served in various capacities on the Virginia Tourism Corporation team since 2016. In addition to her work at VTC, Nave served as Mayor of the City of Bristol from 2024 to 2026, following her tenure as Vice Mayor and City Council member. Under her leadership, she helped manage a $150 million municipal budget and supported transformative economic development initiatives, including the $500 million Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and the opening of the city’s first new public school in 50 years.
“I am honored to step into this role and look forward to continue serving the communities and industry partners who make Virginia such an extraordinary place to visit,” said Nave. “Tourism is one of Virginia most powerful economic drivers, and I’m excited to help advance thoughtful, partner-driven strategies that support long-term success across the Commonwealth.”
Under Nave’s leadership, the partnership marketing team will work with industry partners to strengthen regional competitiveness, support community-driven tourism growth, and enhance Virginia’s position as a premier travel destination. She will also serve on the agency’s Executive Committee, helping guide organizational strategy and foster a culture of creativity, accountability, and excellence.
Nave earned a Master of Business Administration from Louisiana State University and holds a bachelor’s degree from King University. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, supporting youth sports, and watching college football and basketball.
For more information about VTC’s partnership marketing programs, visit vatc.org/partnershipmarketing.
About Virginia Tourism Corporation
Virginia is for Lovers is one of the most iconic and recognizable travel brands in the world. Leveraging that powerful brand equity, Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) is charged with promoting the Commonwealth as a premier travel destination by showcasing all there is to love in a Virginia vacation. The dollars spent by travelers fuel the economy, provide jobs for Virginians, and improve communities across the state. Simply put, tourism helps make Virginia a great place to live, work, and visit. Learn more at virginia.org.