The Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau Board has appointed Renata Olson as Executive Director after a nationwide search. She will begin on April 1, 2026.
Olson brings extensive leadership experience in business development, marketing, and strategy, with a career defined by managing complex initiatives, building strong partnerships, and delivering measurable results. Her background in proposal development and capture strategy has contributed to more than $2 billion in awarded contracts, underscoring her ability to position organizations for growth.
She holds a B.S. in Scientific and Technical Communication and an A.A.S. in Mechanical Design Engineering Technology from Michigan Technological University, with professional training in communications and proposal management.
A longtime advocate for the region, Olson began her career at Cadillac Printing Company, where she worked with local businesses and the Visitors Bureau on tourism marketing and community branding. She now resides in Lake City and is eager to return to a community-facing leadership role.
“Renata’s combination of strategic thinking, business development, marketing expertise, and deep local knowledge made her the clear choice,” said Kim Post, CAVB Board President. “With a strong team in place, the Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau is well-positioned to achieve even more ambitious goals.”
As Executive Director, Olson will focus on leading day-to-day operations and working closely with the Board to position the greater Cadillac area as a premier destination for group and leisure travelers, with an emphasis on driving overnight visitation.
“I am honored to step into this role and reconnect with the community that has been such an important part of my life and career,” said Olson. “I look forward to working with our lodging partners and community stakeholders to tell Cadillac’s story in new and compelling ways, attract visitors, and contribute to the continued growth and success of the region.”
Olson succeeds Cory A. Van Horn, who has served as Interim Executive Director during the transition period to lead day-to-day operations while the Board conducted its search for a permanent leader.