Stephanie Dowling has joined the the Arizona Office of Tourism’s executive marketing team as deputy director of the state's travel destination marketing agency, to focus on strategic advertising and PR development, AOT announced Wednesday in Phoenix.

"We are thrilled that Stephanie has chosen to join the agency," Debbie Johnson, AOT director, said. "Her proven marketing experience will be extremely valuable as we work to bring the Arizona Office of Tourism and the Arizona tourism industry to new levels of promotion and, most importantly, results."

Dowling brings almost two decades of communications expertise, including 10 years specializing in tourism and destination marketing. She represented clients including Tommy Hilfiger-USA, GoDaddy, The Fresh Air Fund and The Art Institutes before joining Starwood Hotels in August 2006 as PR and marketing director for The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa in Arizona; and later as a regional director for Starwood Hotels & Resorts in Hawaii.

Tourism is a key revenue generator for Arizona’s economy. As Arizona’s only statewide marketing agency promoting the Grand Canyon State, AOT produces year-round campaigns promoting Arizona as an exciting travel and tourism destination.

In 2014, more than 40 million visitors generated $20.9 billion throughout the state, injecting nearly $57 million daily into its economy. The Arizona travel and tourism industry produces $2.8 billion in local, state and federal tax revenues, representing a $1,150 tax break per Arizona household.

Created in 1975, the Arizona Office of Tourism (AOT) is headquartered in Phoenix. The agency enhances statewide economy and the quality of life by expanding travel activity and increasing related revenues through tourism promotion. The Arizona tourism industry employs over 171,500 Arizona residents.