David Bratton

Dave is a widely respected DMO industry thought leader, well known for his creative approach to market research which is supported by rigorous, carefully-designed programs. Since founding his market research firm, Future Partners, in 2003, the company has become one of top tourism research service providers in the travel industry and a go-to resource for the now and next in traveler trends. Dave’s work has been recognized with several awards, including being named as one of HSMAI’s 25 Most Extraordinary Minds in Sales and Marketing. Prior to founding Future Partners, he spent a decade pioneering new tourism research techniques and digital marketing tactics for San Francisco Travel as Director of Marketing and Research. Before coming to the travel industry, he worked as an economist for the United States Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis in Washington, D.C. and was a contributor to the noted journal, Survey of Current Business. Dave holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Iowa State University and a Master of Arts in Economics from the University of Arizona. When he is not studying travelers, you can find him out on a hiking trail, camping or otherwise exploring the great outdoors.