HOUSTON (March 12, 2025) – Houston First has promoted Nathan Tollett to the role of Senior Vice President of Convention Sales. Tollett replaces John Solis who is taking on the newly created role of Senior Vice President of Convention Growth and Development for the organization.
As SVP of Convention Sales, Tollett will be responsible for driving the department’s overall strategy. He will oversee all of the various sub-components of the department, including the Citywide and In-House teams, as well as the Facility Optimization Team that helps manage the revenue side of the George R. Brown Convention Center’s (GRB) operations. Tollett most recently served as Vice President of Citywide Sales.
In his new role, Solis will leverage his nearly four decades of experience and senior-level relationships with high-value customers and industry leaders to ensure Houston First is booking optimal business. This will become even more important as the organization works to transform the GRB to meet the evolving needs of convention and meetings clients. Solis will also advise the development team leading the construction project and provide ongoing advice and guidance to Tollett as he transitions into the role.
“Under John Solis’ leadership, our Sales team has shown tremendous fortitude in recent years, helping us to quickly regain what was lost in the pandemic and reaching new records in terms of booked business. But in order to continue to maximize results, we have to innovate and evolve as an organization—embracing new challenges and opportunities,” said Michael Heckman, President and CEO of Houston First. “Having worked in multiple areas of our industry, Nathan has tremendous experience and perspective that, along with his creativity and passion, has translated to one win after another for Houston. This new role is one he richly deserves. Now, we have an opportunity with John’s substantial experience, skill and relationships, along with Nathan’s knowledge and innovation, to chart a fantastic course and prepare our team for the future with a reimagined campus.”
Solis has nearly four decades of experience in the destination marketing industry. Since joining the Houston team in 2009, he has played a significant role in successful bids for the 2017 Super Bowl, 2023 NCAA Men’s Final Four and the 2024 College Football Playoff Championship. Prior to coming to Houston, Solis served in a senior leadership role at the San Antonio Convention and Visitors Bureau where he oversaw strategies related to marketing, public relations, tourism, convention sales and services.
“I’m immensely proud of what our team has accomplished over the past 15 years since I joined the organization. Through challenges and successes, we’ve remained committed to delivering for Houston and our hospitality community,” Solis said. “Now, with the convention center expansion project, we have a unique opportunity to elevate our impact even further. I’m excited to contribute my industry expertise and customer-focused perspective to this initiative. Additionally, I look forward to continuing my collaboration with Nathan Tollett as we work together on this exciting next chapter.”
Tollett began his hospitality career as an event manager at the George R. Brown Convention Center in 2002. He served in various sales leadership roles with the Greater Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau (predecessor to Houston First) and The Golden Nugget in Las Vegas before rejoining this organization in 2009. Tollett is well-recognized for his creative approach to client experiences.
“It has been an honor to represent Houston in various capacities over the past 21 years, and I’m thrilled to help guide our destination toward new milestones,” Tollett said. “We have an outstanding team in place, dedicated to delivering first-class customer service and showcasing the exceptional value of hosting events in our vibrant city.”
The Houston First Sales team had a record year in 2024 with 759 future meetings booked representing nearly 862,000 room nights, far surpassing the previous record set in 2019 and a 25% increase over 2023. Additionally, meetings and events booked by the Houston First team and held in 2024 represented approximately 740,000 room nights, surpassing the previous record of 733,000 room nights set in 2019. Learn more here.
ABOUT HOUSTON FIRST CORPORATION
Houston First Corporation (HFC) is the destination marketing organization for the country's fourth largest city. In addition to serving as operator for the George R. Brown Convention Center and some of Houston's most prominent art, entertainment, and event venues, HFC is focused on promoting the city's vibrancy and rich tapestry of culture. By harnessing the city's collective energy, ambition, and creativity, including its diverse culinary scene, world-renowned performing arts, medical and space innovation, and elite filming locations, HFC is solidifying Houston as a premier national and global destination. For the latest news and info regarding HFC, visit www.houstonfirst.com
pictured above from left, John Solis and Nathan Tollett
Media Contact:
Carolyn Campbell
Director, Corporate PR
carolyn.campbell@houstonfirst.com
