Brad Walker began his career in the aviation industry with Alaska Airlines in 1983.  He started in airport operations before moving to sales and marketing as an account executive with Alaska’s expansion into the Los Angeles market.  Walker then moved to HQ in Seattle to help develop new routes to Mexico and was instrumental in growing the region for the carrier.  Walker was a founding member of Alaska’s commercial strategy team that led the carrier’s strategic direction.  Walker also spearheaded efforts to identify new markets, most notably the airline’s entrance into the Hawaii market.  Walker organized and led the in-house tour company, Alaska Airlines Vacations, as well as leading all of the domestic and international sales efforts for Alaska.

 

In addition to his time at Alaska Airlines, Brad has held numerous executive positions in hotel marketing and destination management. Brad was Vice President of Business Development for Travel Holdings, helping to develop a consumer direct online travel agency through the portal lastminutetravel.com. Brad was also Senior Vice Present of Coastal Hotels, responsible for leading all sales and marketing for the company throughout their entire hotel portfolio. Following a desire to start his own company, he founded Walker & Associates, which provides consulting services to airlines, airports, hotels, and online travel companies. 

 

A proven leader in destination marketing, Walker has been a member of several tourism boards for Alaska, California, Washington and Mexico.  Walker was selected by Washington State’s Governor to participate as a member of the State’s first Tourism Commission and was asked to lead the Marketing committee as Chairman.  Walker is a past Chairman of the Board /Board member for Visit Seattle and is currently on the Executive Board with Visit Walla Walla.

 

Along with his wife Marisa, Walker created a wine/travel themed auction (VINE) 21 years ago to support the Boys and Girls Clubs of King County. VINE has raised over $2.5 million dollars for kids in our community.