Alan Waddell, the chief operating officer of Visit USA, has passed away after losing his fight against double pneumonia.
He died peacefully, with his wife Helen and family by his side.
Visit USA chair Kate Burgess-Craddy said: "We are so very, very sad to lose such a dynamic and vital person, loved by so many.
"He loved his role in developing opportunities for increasing British travel to the USA. His friendships throughout the industry were precious to him. He will be sorely missed by us all."
Alan headed up the Visit USA Association Secretariat for the last 10 years.
He also did a lot of work to raise funds for the travel industry’s Just a Drop charity.
Funeral details have not yet been confirmed.
Industry friends and colleagues who would like to send cards should address them to Helen, c/o The Visit USA Association, US Embassy, 24 Grosvenor Square, London, W1A 1AE.
