GVB president Carl Gutierrez resigns

Former Gov. Carl T.C. Gutierrez has stepped down from his position as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Guam Visitors Bureau.

GVB spokesperson Lisa Bordallo confirmed the Board of Directors received and accepted his official letter of resignation Friday afternoon, citing it was a personal decision.

His departure comes after a heated exchange with chairman George Chiu during a recent board meeting.

Adelup called for unity between management and the board to develop a tourism recovery plan. 

GVB Vice President Gerry Perez has been named as the Acting President & CEO in the interim until the position is filled. 

"The Bureau continues to be functional, carrying on its duties and mission for the tourism industry," the agency stated in a press release. "The staff, management and board of GVB extend their gratitude to Former Gov. Gutierrez for his four years of unparalleled commitment, leadership and vision for the Bureau and for the island of Guam."

Gutierrez had just wrapped up a trip to Korea with Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero ahead of his resignation. The mission to Korea was to reinforce ties with major partners to offer incentives for additional flights while preserving the existing airline schedule.