Cathy Tull has been senior vice president of marketing for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority since 2009 and is one of the key organizers of Vegas Uncork’d, the highly anticipated foodie event celebrating its ninth year this month with events at Aria, Bellagio, Caesars Palace and MGM Grand.
Do you have any news or updates about yourself, your work or your company you’d like to share?
The LVCVA is embarking on an exciting program with the Las Vegas Global Business District. This project will propel the growth of trade shows in Las Vegas. It will create jobs and serve as an economic driver in Southern Nevada.
You are one of the key organizers of Vegas Uncork’d. What impact does the event have on our city?
Vegas Uncork’d with Bon Appetit allows us to spotlight the amazing culinary scene in Las Vegas. It’s an immersive experience that gives visitors an opportunity not only to enjoy some amazing food at our resort properties but also rub elbows with some of the world’s best chefs.
How does Las Vegas rank as a foodie destination?
Las Vegas has become a leading foodie destination. The world’s top chefs have opened restaurants in Las Vegas, and along with having the most master sommeliers in any city in the world, Las Vegas offers a variety of experiences that are unparalleled. High-end dining experiences on the Strip to authentic dining opportunities downtown put us on top.
What’s the most important thing Las Vegas is doing to brand itself?
What Happens Here, Stays Here. As a destination, we embrace adult freedom — the ability to make the experience what the visitor wants, be it a seven-course meal at Joël Robuchon or a dayclub/nightclub experience. Our visitors want to experience the destination in their own way, and our level of variety allows them to accomplish that goal.
What will Las Vegas be known for in 10 years?
We will be known for our meeting facilities, with the Las Vegas Global Business District bringing in more trade shows. We will also see more rooms — everything from the Genting project to the reincarnation of the Fontainbleau. We will see more outdoor festival experiences up and down the Las Vegas Strip. It will be social and participatory. The entire experience of Las Vegas will evolve into a social community.
What’s your favorite food? What’s your favorite local restaurant?
My favorite food is Mexican or Italian. My favorite restaurants are Javier’s and Pasta Shop.
What is the best business advice you’ve received, and from whom did it come?
John Wilson told me when I first moved to Las Vegas 19 years ago that relationships were the most important part of business. You can never underestimate the power of a relationship, especially in Las Vegas.
If you could change one thing about Southern Nevada, what would it be?
I would move us from the bottom of the public school education rankings to the top 10.
What’s the biggest issue facing Southern Nevada and its residents?
One big issue is that the community does not embrace the fact that we are an economy based on tourism, and unless we support that employment base, we will be working against ourselves.
What are you reading right now?
“Gray Mountain” by John Grisham.
What do you do after work?
I shuttle my kids to activities, enjoy family time and do my email.
Blackberry, iPhone or Android?
iPhone 6.
Describe your management style.
Empower my team to determine their path and collaborate so we are all successful.
Where do you see yourself and your company in 10 years?
As a leader in the travel and tourism industry.
What is your dream job, outside of your current field?
Photographer for National Geographic.
Whom do you admire and why?
My parents. They raised nine kids and worked tirelessly in upstate New York — believing in faith, hard work and family. They are fulfilled with their life and take pride in their family.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
When people dismiss Las Vegas as frivolous and not a serious place to do business.
What is something that people might not know about you?
I love to cook for my family and friends.