Cohera announces leadership evolution: Shelly Archer and Hope Valentine transition to board of directors

Cohera announces a significant milestone in its leadership evolution as two of the company’s most influential leaders, Shelly Archer and Hope Valentine, transition from their day-to-day executive roles to serve on Cohera’s Board of Directors.

Effective May 31, 2026, Hope Valentine will step into her role on the Board, followed by Shelly Archer on June 30, 2026. This transition reflects a thoughtful and strategic next chapter for both leaders and reinforces Cohera’s commitment to long-term growth and continued industry leadership.

“This is not a departure, but a progression,” said Trevor Hanks, CEO of Cohera. “Shelly and Hope have each played a defining role in building the foundation of this company, from entrepreneurial beginnings to industry-leading organizations, and ultimately to the creation of Cohera. Their transition to the Board ensures that their vision, experience, and leadership will continue to guide our future at the highest level.”

Shelly Archer’s career reflects a deeply entrepreneurial and transformative path. Beginning in hospitality in 1992 as a tour operator, she went on to build and scale her own destination management company before co-founding 360 Destination Group in 2012. Under her leadership, the company expanded from four offices in Southern California into a national organization with 20 locations, growing revenue from $5 million to $90 million and building a team of 180 employees. Her leadership helped shape a culture rooted in innovation, relationships, and excellence, qualities that continue to define Cohera today.

“Building and growing this business has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” said Archer. “Stepping into this new role allows me to continue investing in Cohera’s future in a different way, supporting the next generation of leadership, strengthening our strategic direction, and staying closely connected to the people and partnerships that make this company so special and close to my heart.”

With a career spanning more than three decades, Hope Valentine has been a driving force in the destination management industry. From starting in an entry-level DMC role in 1997 to becoming a top-performing sales leader, she went on to found her own company before becoming a partner and co-owner of CSI DMC. Under her leadership, CSI grew from two offices into a national organization with 14 locations and more than $100 million in revenue, navigating both rapid expansion and post-pandemic resurgence. She also played a pivotal role in the successful merger that led to the formation of Cohera.

“What we’ve built together over the years is incredibly meaningful,” said Valentine. “This next chapter is about continuing that journey, bringing a broader perspective to how we grow, evolve, and lead as a company. I’m excited to remain part of shaping Cohera’s future while also making space for new ideas and new leadership to rise.”

Together, Archer and Valentine have helped redefine what growth, leadership, and partnership look like within the destination management industry. Their combined impact spans decades of innovation, relationship-building, and an unwavering commitment to elevating the standard of excellence across the field.

In their new roles on the Board of Directors, both will remain actively involved in Cohera’s future, advising executive leadership, helping shape long-term strategy, mentoring emerging leaders, and maintaining key client and partner relationships at a strategic level.

As part of this planned leadership transition, Cohera has initiated an executive search for a Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), who will unify the commercial leadership responsibilities previously held by Archer and Valentine. This role will report directly to the CEO and play a key role in driving the company’s next phase of growth.

“Hope and Shelly’s legacy is deeply embedded in who we are,” Hanks added. “With their continued guidance at the Board level, we are exceptionally well positioned to build on that foundation and continue leading the industry forward.”

In their new roles on the Board, both leaders will remain accessible to clients, partners, and colleagues and will continue to help shape Cohera’s future, providing ongoing strategic guidance and ensuring their lasting impact remains deeply woven into the company’s forward momentum.