Gregg M. Mervis

President & CEO, Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau and John S. Knight Center

Beginning his professional career in 1981, Akron native, Gregg Mervis is an active member and advocate of the travel and tourism industry.

After 14 years of employment with the Quaker Hilton, Gregg left his position as Director of Sales in 1995 to become Director of Sales for the Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau and the John S. Knight Center.

He was promoted to Vice President of the Bureau and Center in 1996 and became Vice President & Chief Operating Officer in 2008.

In 2012, Gregg was named President & Chief Executive Officer; he is responsible for the management and oversight of the organization’s three (3) business units.

Gregg is a member of various national industry organizations, including: Destination International, International Association of Assembly Managers and National Association of Consumer Shows. His involvement to foster the visitor economy at the State level includes: Ohio Travel Association, Ohio Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus and Ohio Hotel & Lodging Association.

He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby, Downtown Akron Partnership, I.A.T.S.E. Health & Pension and ArtsNow, where he is also Board President.

Gregg currently resides in Akron with his wife Terrill and daughter Grace.