Gregory L. DeShields, CDE, CHE
Strategic, Inclusive, and Leader in Philadelphia, PA
A tourism industry executive, certified hospitality educator, and strategic leader now serving as President of Skål Philadelphia, with a proven track record across diverse sectors.
Greg DeShields is a nationally respected tourism industry executive, certified hospitality educator, and nonprofit leader with more than 30 years of experience advancing inclusive workforce development, destination growth, and strategic partnerships across the tourism, hospitality, education, and nonprofit sectors. He is a visionary leader known for aligning economic impact with community-centered outcomes and for building initiatives that strengthen local and regional tourism ecosystems.
Rich stories that will stir us, motivate us, and ultimately inspire thousands to get started working on their own ideas
The Principal Point Cues and Views
Celebrated tourism leader Greg DeShields, in brief.
Greg currently serves as President of Skål Philadelphia and serves on both the Young Skål and Sustainable Events Network committees. Providing strategic leadership to one of the region’s premier global tourism organizations while fostering collaboration among industry executives, destinations, and emerging leaders. Throughout his career, he has led high-profile programs and events that build community, challenge narratives, and transform organizational culture—particularly in spaces focused on equity, access, and talent development.
Through Greg DeShields Consulting LLC (GDC), Greg brings a comprehensive, systems-based approach to tourism and hospitality consulting. Drawing on deep expertise in hospitality operations, destination marketing, higher education, and workforce development, GDC partners with organizations to develop talent pipelines, strengthen industry engagement, and create sustainable strategies that support long-term growth and inclusion within the tourism economy.
He serves as a board member of the North Bay LGBTQ+ Community & Visitors Center, Hospitality Internships → Hospitality Nexus, Global Advisory Council for WeDiasporan, the Greater Philadelphia Film Office, the Philadelphia Award, the Green Book Experience, and Cheyney University's HRTM Program.He is also active in organizations such as Skål International, Cherry Hill African American Civic Association (CHAACA), and the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals
Hospitality Tech Show Inc, connecting hospitality & tech, empowering leaders, educators & students through insight & impact
Greg was appointed Director of Partnerships, Sponsorships & Development, collaborating closely with Founders, the Board of Directors, the Advisory Board, and the Executive Leadership Team to expand our visibility and build meaningful relationships with hospitality organizations, technology companies, educational institutions, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, foundations, and community leaders.
As the Lead Site Assistant for the Head Start preschool program, Greg provides operational and administrative leadership to ensure the safe, efficient, and effective daily operations of a high-quality early childhood education center serving