Greg Deshields

of Greg DeShields Consulting LLC (GDC), he leads the consulting practice focused on workforce development, tourism education, destination engagement, organizational leadership, and industry partnerships that connect education, industry, and community impact for sustainable growth and long-term results worldwide.

Greg collaborates with major industry and academic organizations, including the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals and the Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership at Howard University. He develops curriculum, facilitates workforce development initiatives, and designs structured industry engagement programs that support hospitality education. His work connects students, educators, and professionals through experiential learning, mentorship, and career development opportunities that strengthen talent pipelines and improve long-term workforce readiness across sectors globally and in sustainability.

Gregory L. DeShields serves as President of Skål Philadelphia, providing strategic leadership within a global tourism organization. In his second term, he focuses on membership growth, leadership development, sustainability, and industry engagement while strengthening collaboration among tourism, hospitality, destination, and business leaders. His work advances regional tourism development and organizational impact across multiple stakeholder groups, supporting long-term economic and community development in destinations globally today and within international tourism ecosystems and partnerships.

DeShields contributes at the international level through service on the Skål International Tourism Sustainability Committee, supporting initiatives that promote responsible tourism, environmental stewardship, and sustainable destination practices across the global travel industry. He is actively involved in Young Skål and Project Future, connecting hospitality students and emerging professionals with industry leaders through mentorship, education, and career development opportunities that strengthen future leadership pipelines within global tourism ecosystems and networks.

Greg DeShields hosts a leadership-focused podcast series that explores leadership, passion, and purpose through conversations with voices from across industries and lived experiences. He has also served as a DisruptHR presenter for two consecutive years, sharing insights on workforce trends, leadership, and talent development. His academic background includes hospitality management degrees and participation in distinguished leadership programs that support professional growth and community engagement across education and industry sectors globally, with a continued impact today.