Bermuda Tourism Authority Board Unveiled

Bermuda’s tourism industry will be led by “an entrepreneurial and vibrant group” that will “drive Bermuda’s re-emergence as a world-class tourism destination”, it has been claimed.

Tourism Minister Shawn Crockwell this afternoon unveiled the eight-member Board of Directors which will oversee the Tourism Authority — a non-political organization that has taken over the running of the industry from Government’s Department of Tourism.

Introducing the board at a press conference, Mr. Crockwell said: “I believe this is a watershed moment for Bermuda’s tourism industry and our last real opportunity to turn things around and restore our position as a desired premier destination — this is new territory for Bermuda.”

“I would like to thank our new Board of Directors for enthusiastically agreeing to lead this very important organization. Our two international directors add a global perspective of excellence to our board and we sincerely appreciate their commitment to Bermuda.

“I have emphasized to the Board that it is no longer business as usual for Bermuda Tourism. We have created an entirely new structure focused on delivering the objectives of the National Tourism plan.

“This will include two new divisions, Tourism Investment and Product and Experience Development, which will drive change in the Bermuda tourism product.

“As the Authority develops creative and innovative ways to make Bermuda a more attractive and competitive destination for visitors and tourism investors, they will be the singular voice that drives Bermuda’s re-emergence as a world-class tourism destination.

“The OBA Government, and especially myself as Minister responsible, are proud of today’s announcement, which marks the beginning of a new era in Bermuda Tourism.

Mr. Crockwell added that a CEO has yet to be appointed to the authority and other staff posts are also vacant. Earlier, Government said that the authority will not be fully operational until March, 2014.

At yesterday’s press conference, Board chairman David Dodwell said: “Today is an exciting day for tourism and for Bermuda. For the first time in Bermuda’s history, our tourism product is being guided by an independent, private enterprise. I commend both political parties for progressing this change and helping Bermuda to move tourism forward.

“It’s a big challenge and one I’m looking forward to achieving along with my fellow Board members and the team at the Bermuda Tourism Authority.

“Our success depends on working together with the tourism sector in a shared commitment to revitalize this industry. We want to build on the hard work that many people in hospitality are already undertaking today. We welcome the new Directors and we are committed to keeping the public up-to-date with the developments at the authority.”

Source: The Royal Gazette (Bermuda)