Episode 20: Revolutionizing Indy: Leonard Hoops' Creative Blueprint for Convention Success

Luminate: Navigating the Unknown Through Creative Leadership

Travel with us into the visionary world of Leonard Hoops, the president, and CEO of Visit Indy, and the driving force behind transforming Indianapolis into America’s top convention destination. From his Trinidadian roots to his rise in Indianapolis’ growing tourism industry, Leonard’s creative leadership and strategic vision have not only elevated the city on the convention map but have also cultivated a vibrant ecosystem, contributing to a nearly $6B boom.
In this episode, Leonard shares his remarkable journey from a journalism and MBA graduate of San Jose State University and Santa Clara University to becoming a respected industry leader. We explore the pivotal moments and decisions that shaped his career and led him to Indianapolis.
Since joining Visit Indy in 2011, Leonard has led a dynamic team of industry professionals to shatter convention and tourism sales records. Discover the strategies and initiatives that positioned this team and Indianapolis as the #1 convention city in America according to USA Today, leading to accolades from The New York Times, Conde’ Nast Traveler, and more.
Leonard also shares how Visit Indy’s focus on positive workplace culture fosters team engagement and satisfaction, and he explains how recognition as a “Best Place to Work in Indiana” has bolstered team productivity.
With over 35 years of travel and tourism experience, Leonard’s influence reaches far beyond Visit Indy. We discuss his extensive involvement in community and industry boards, including his roles with the U.S. Travel Association, PCMA, and more. Leonard also offers insights into how these roles have enabled him to shape the future of travel, tourism, and community development.
Beyond his leadership, Leonard’s position on the Indianapolis Business Journal’s Indiana 250 list and the honor of being named an ‘Indiana Living Legend’ are celebrated, along with his vision for Tourism Tomorrow and overseeing Indy’s Destination Vision, which allows Indy to thrive as a premiere destination for conventions and tourists.
Finally, from receiving the Vonnegut Humor Award to being named one of the “Top 25 Most Extraordinary Minds in Hospitality & Travel Sales & Marketing,” Leonard reflects on his entertaining personality that highlights his creative and innovative spirit.