Our Leadership
Meet our Chief Executive Officer
Steve Bagwell, CEO
Steve Bagwell is a dedicated advocate for the hospitality industry, with a career spanning over 25 years devoted to enhancing Charlotte’s visitor economy. A native of the Queen City, Steve brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to fostering a positive organizational culture. As CEO of the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA), he leads efforts to champion tourism as a key driver of economic development and to enhance the positive impact the visitor economy has on the community’s quality of life.
Steve’s leadership journey began at the Charlotte Convention Center when it opened in 1995, where he served as Warehouse Manager before transitioning into the role of Concessions Manager within the Food & Beverage department. His experience expanded during his tenure in Finance, where he played a pivotal role in the 2004 merger that formed the CRVA. Over more than a decade, Steve managed financial reporting and audit functions, earning his CPA designation in 2000.
By 2012, Steve was at the helm of the Charlotte Convention Center as General Manager, and by 2014, he was promoted to Vice President of Venues, overseeing operations at some of Charlotte’s most significant event spaces. His leadership has contributed to hundreds of successful events annually, generating millions for the local economy. Steve also spearheaded major projects like the $127 million expansion of the Charlotte Convention Center in 2021 and the $20 million enhancement to the Bojangles Entertainment Complex in 2020.
A testament to his ability to lead large-scale operations and navigate complex projects that leave a lasting impact on the city, Steve has been instrumental in hosting high-profile events such as the 2012 Democratic National Convention, the 2019 NBA All-Star Weekend, and the 2014 Alpha Kappa Alpha 66th Boule.
Steve earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Clemson University and is a proud alumnus of Leadership Charlotte Class 41. He serves on several boards, including the Charlotte Sports Foundation, Charlotte Center City Partners, and the NASCAR Hall of Fame Foundation, where he is also a member of the Advisory Committee. Additionally, Steve is a Trustee of the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance Board, reflecting his deep commitment to advancing the economic and cultural vitality of Charlotte.
Executive Leadership
CRVA's leadership team works together as a collaborative group to make sound business decisions through the lens of an employee-first culture, modeling core values and executing best practices supported by evidence-based research. Above all, they harness the power of highly-engaged, diverse team members working across multiple brands and venues to deliver exceptional customer service and elevate the prosperity of the Charlotte region.
Mike Butts
Executive Director, Visit Charlotte & VP of SalesA leader in the tourism and hospitality industry, Mike Butts serves as the Executive Director for Visit Charlotte and Vice President of Sales for the Charlotte Regional Visitor Authority, where he has worked for over 20 years.
As the sales and servicing arm for the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority, Visit Charlotte promotes the region as a destination for tourists, a host city for meetings and conventions, and a site for sporting events. Butts oversees operations for a team comprised of more than 40 professionals dedicated to these goals and is an influential voice in furthering the advancement of Charlotte and the hospitality and tourism industry as a whole.
Among many positions in the industry, Butts previously held positions as Vice President of Marketing and General Manager for Signature Hospitality Resources, a nationwide operator of the most prestigious brand names in the hospitality industry, as well as a Regional Director of Sales for Hyatt Hotels. A professional development advocate, Butts has served a number of industry-related organizations – most notably as President for the Destination Marketing Association of North Carolina, a Board Member for Destination Marketing Association International, a Board Member for the NC Division of Film, Tourism, and Sports Development, Chairman of the Board Member for the NC Travel and Tourism Coalition and board member of the American Bus Association.
Butts is a native of Columbus, Ohio, and a graduate of Ohio State University.
Cameron Furr
General CounselCameron Furr serves as the CRVA’s in-house General Counsel, a post he’s held since 2019 after having represented the organization as outside counsel for over 20 years.
He is responsible for overseeing the legal matters of the organization, including leading event and vendor contracting activities.
Furr received a Bachelor of Arts (Economics) and a Juris Doctor from UNC-Chapel Hill, where he served as an Editor on the Law Review. He began practicing with Grier and Grier, PA in Charlotte in 1989, became a Partner in 1994 and was with the firm, now known as Grier, Furr & Crisp, PA for 28 years.
In addition, Furr has served as Vice President of the local Bar, President of the Myers Park Homeowners Association and has been on the boards of nonprofits such as the Lee Institute/Duke Mansion, Legal Services for the Elderly, Mecklenburg Council on Adolescent Pregnancy and Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation District III Advisory Board.
Zaira Goodman
Chief Human Resources OfficerAs Chief Human Resources Officer, Goodman's role extends beyond HR functional management to lead the business in the critical areas of talent strategy, change management, employee engagement, and company culture.
A seasoned human resources and talent management executive, Goodman has over 20 years’ experience specializing in HR strategy, leadership development, succession planning, employee relations and team building. She is also an experienced people leader in HR for industries including Event/Venues Management, Re-Insurance, Construction and Manufacturing.
She understands the challenges and opportunities for success in the areas of Strategy, Operations, Sales, Finance, Technology, to improve measurable business results through goal alignment, effective staffing, process redesign, and people development. She has facilitated many Leadership classes, has conducted numerous employee investigations, and has led employee teams and Task Forces to create and implement successful HR initiatives.
Originally from Puerto Rico, Goodman is bilingual in Spanish and understands diversity, inclusion as well as international and Latino cultures both on personal and business environment. She has worked both in for-profit corporate environments as well as nonprofit organizations. She currently serves in the CharlotteWorks Board of Directors to advance economic development and jobs for unemployed and underserved individuals.
Goodman has a BS in Psychology from the University of North Carolina, Charlotte.
Winston Kelley
Executive Director, NASCAR Hall of FameWinston Kelley is Vice-President, CRVA and Executive Director of the NASCAR Hall of Fame which works to provide memorable and dynamic experiences to broad and diverse audiences, serves as the recognized home for honoring NASCAR’s ongoing history, drive economic impact for the Charlotte region and inspire all to exceed expectations and achieve one’s full potential.
Prior to joining the CRVA in 2006, Kelley spent more than 27 years with Duke Energy in a wide variety of managerial and executive capacities.
Born into a racing family, Kelley began his motorsports career in 1981 working with the Universal Racing Network and the North Wilkesboro Speedway as well as numerous other NASCAR tracks in the years ahead. He joined the Motor Racing Network (MRN) radio broadcasting team in 1987 and served as lead pit reporter for 18 years before stepping away full time at the end of the 2020 season.
Through his 42-year career, Kelley has served the Charlotte region and motorsports communities through a number of civic and industry organizations. Kelley graduated magna cum laude from North Carolina State University with Bachelor of Arts degrees in business management and economics.
Anthony Shelborne
Chief Financial Officer & VP, Business DevelopmentAnthony Shelborne joined the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA) in May 2020 as Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Business Development. In this capacity, he drives the organization’s financial strategy, overseeing comprehensive financial management, accounting, budgeting, and forecasting efforts. He also leads the Research and Business Analytics departments, manages risk, and directs the Information Technology department to ensure seamless operational integrity and efficiency. Beyond his financial responsibilities, Anthony plays a pivotal role in cultivating strategic partnerships between the CRVA and its community partners, advancing key initiatives that support the organization's mission.
Before joining the CRVA, Anthony was CFO of the $11 billion District of Columbia Retirement Board, serving teachers, police officers, and firefighters. He led all financial activities, including accounting, budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and investment strategy, in partnership with the Chief Investment Officer. Anthony and his team successfully managed the plan’s assets, ensuring full regulatory compliance. He also collaborated with the Executive Leadership Team to drive key initiatives and represented the agency at annual City Council hearings. His earlier career included roles in associations, nonprofits, and government at various levels, focusing on events, trade shows, and strategic operations.
Anthony is a proud alumnus of Leadership Charlotte Class 44. He actively contributes to the Charlotte community, serving on the Finance Committee for Freedom School Partners and on the board of the NASCAR Hall of Fame Foundation.
With nearly 20 years of expertise in financial management, accounting, and budgeting, Anthony is recognized for his strategic insight, leadership, and ability to align economic and business metrics to drive organizational success. He is highly regarded for his collaborative approach, building consensus across all levels of an organization. Before relocating to Charlotte, he was deeply involved in his community, tutoring students and serving over 15 years on the Board of Trustees and as Chair of the Investment Committee at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Arlington, VA.
Anthony holds a master’s degree in public policy and public finance from the University of Chicago and a Bachelor of Arts in Business and Economics from Talladega College.
Gina Sheridan
Chief Marketing & Communications OfficerGina Sheridan boasts an impressive 24-year tenure as Charlotte's leading tourism marketer. In her role as Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, she has been instrumental in propelling the Charlotte region into the spotlight, positioning it as a vibrant destination for leisure travelers, and a significant economic engine that fuels community prosperity.
Under her leadership, the CRVA's marketing and communications strategy has been pivotal in driving the narrative of Charlotte's visitor economy, which generates an impressive $8 billion annually for the region. This success enhances the quality of life for the region’s residents and positions Charlotte as a premier visitor destination, a sought-after host city for conventions, meetings, and sporting events, a site for significant events, and a preferred production location for film.
As a member of the CRVA Executive Leadership Team, Gina provides strategic leadership and guidance, developing and executing initiatives aimed at brand engagement, revenue generation, and reputation enhancement for the CRVA and its managed brands. Her visionary leadership guides a team of 25 professionals, where together they work to elevate Charlotte's profile on national and international stages, enhance spending in leisure tourism, and achieve excellence across various disciplines, including branding, marketing, advertising, public relations, digital, and corporate communications.
Gina's professional achievements have garnered her recognition as one of the Charlotte Business Journal's 40 Under 40 honorees. A proud graduate of Leadership Charlotte, she serves on the Board of Directors Executive Committee as VP of Marketing. Additionally, Gina is an active member of the Johnson & Wales University Executive Advisory Council, NASCAR Hall of Fame Advisory Committee, and holds a distinguished membership in Women Executives, a group of accomplished women who have demonstrated excellence in their careers and within the Charlotte community. Within this group, she also serves on the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors as VP of Communications, further underscoring her commitment to community development and leadership excellence.
Bryan Miller
Vice President of VenuesAs Vice President of Venues, Miller oversees the talented teams responsible for operating the Charlotte Convention Center, Bojangles Coliseum and Ovens Auditorium, as well as back-of-house support services at the Spectrum Center.
Bryan has over 20 years’ experience in venue management and is a well-respected leader in the industry. Bryan joined the CRVA in 2023 as General Manager of the Charlotte Convention Center. Prior to that he served multiple roles at the Virginia Beach Convention Center most recently as General Manager. He has a rich background in venue management, proven track record in fostering teamwork, and adeptness in financial and performance analysis. His innovative problem-solving skills and dedication to service excellence are key assets that drive the CRVA to deliver operational efficiency and unparalleled customer service.
Bryan is a native of Virginia Beach, VA and holds an MBA from Regent University. He is very active in the International Association of Venue Managers and received his Certified Venue Executive designation in 2021. He served previously on the Board of Directors for the Event Service Professionals Association and is a Certified Meeting Professional by the Events Industry Council.
Board of Directors
The CRVA is guided by a 13-member board of directors who collaborate closely with CEO Steve Bagwell to provide leadership for the organization and advocate for the region's hospitality and tourism industry. The board consists of nine members appointed by the Charlotte City Council and four members appointed by the Mayor. Specifically, the Mayor appoints three at-large members and one limited-service hotel representative, while the City Council appoints five at-large members, one general travel representative, one full-service hotel representative, one restaurant representative, and one representative from Mecklenburg County towns. Each member serves a term length of three years and is limited to two terms.
Emma Allen
Executive Committee (Vice Chair), Strategic Planning Committee (Chair), Nominating Committee
Vinay Patel
Executive Committee (Past Chair), Nominating Committee (Chair), Visitors Advisory Committee
