Greg DeShields is a nationally respected tourism industry executive, certified hospitality educator, consultant, and nonprofit leader with more than 30 years of experience in tourism, hospitality, education, and nonprofit organizations. As Founder and Principal of Greg DeShields Consulting LLC (GDC), he works with organizations to strengthen workforce development, tourism education, destination engagement, organizational leadership, and strategic partnerships while supporting sustainable growth.

Through his consulting practice, Greg has partnered with the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP) and the Marriott-Sorenson Center for Hospitality Leadership at Howard University. His work includes developing curriculum, supporting workforce initiatives, and creating industry engagement programs that connect students, educators, and professionals through mentorship, experiential learning, and career development.

Greg serves as President of Skål Philadelphia and is in his second term, focusing on membership growth, leadership development, sustainability, industry engagement, and strengthening the organization's presence within the global network. He also serves on the Skål International Tourism Sustainability Committee and contributes to Young Skål and Project Future, helping hospitality students and emerging professionals build meaningful industry connections.

Throughout his career, he has led programs and events that promote equity, access, workforce development, and talent cultivation. He also hosts the Something to Say with Greg's podcast, where conversations explore leadership, purpose, and personal growth. As a DisruptHR presenter for two consecutive years, he has shared perspectives on workforce trends and the future of talent development.

Greg Deshields earned an Associate of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management and a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island, and completed leadership programs through the Urban League of Philadelphia Leadership Forum, Leadership Philadelphia, and the Greater Philadelphia Leadership Exchange.