Harriet Carter, CMP, DES

Harriet Carter, CMP, DES, serves as the Vice President of Customer and Partner Services at Visit Detroit. In this pivotal role, Harriet oversees the Partnership, Destination Services, and Convention Services areas, collaborating closely with partners and meeting planners to develop strategic programs that elevate the convention experiences throughout metro Detroit.

Harriet's leadership is instrumental in nurturing and enhancing customer relationships, bolstering Visit Detroit's visibility within the hospitality community. She spearheads the operational aspects of conventions and membership services. And ensure seamless executions of key events such as the ROSE Awards and Visit Detroit Annual Meeting.

With a career spanning over three decades, Harriet's journey with Visit Detroit began in 1989 as an Account Executive with the Sales department. Her contributions were pivotal in attracting national conventions to the metro Detroit region, earning her recognition as a top sales producer with multiple "TOP GUN" awards.

Beyond her success in attracting conventions, Harriet has worked on some of Detroit's most prestigious sporting events: Superbowl XL, NCAA Final Four, Ryder Cup, MLB All-Star Game, and PGA Championship.

In 1999, Harriet's dedication and expertise led to her promotion to Director of Bureau Services, where she played a central role in facilitating meetings hosted in metro Detroit by closely engaging with membership and convention departments.

Harriet's remarkable achievements have been acknowledged through various prestigious awards, including the City of Detroit Mayor's Certificate of Appreciation, the Detroit City Council's Spirit of Detroit Award, and the State of Michigan Seal Award. She was honored with the Woman of Excellence Award for her profound impact on the Hospitality community.

Leading local publications have recognized her expertise, and she has been featured in prominent magazines such as Meetings & Convention, Convene, and Black Meetings & Tourism. Harriet's educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations with a minor in Business Administration from Michigan State University. She holds three distinguished professional certification designations: Certified Meeting Planner (CMP) and Digital Event Strategist (DES).

Harriet is an active member of several esteemed organizations, including the Event Services Association (ESPA), the Event Industry Council, and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She also serves on the Board of the MotorCities National Heritage Area, demonstrating her commitment to industry excellence and community engagement.