Visit Sunshine Coast launches recruitment drive for new CEO

Visit Sunshine Coast (VSC) has launched a national recruitment campaign for a new Chief Executive Officer. The position has become available following the resignation of Simon Ambrose, who was CEO from 2013 – 2016.

 

The appointment of a new CEO comes at a crucial time in the region’s tourism development. On the eve of celebrating the 50th anniversary of the naming of the Sunshine Coast, and with the green light given to the expansion of Sunshine Coast Airport, the region is set to undertake its most rapid growth phase in its history.

 

Visit Sunshine Coast is the Regional Tourism Organisation responsible for promoting tourism in the region spanning coastal resorts such as Caloundra, Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, Coolum, Noosa and Rainbow Beach through to inland areas such as the Blackall Range, Noosa Hinterland and Mary Valley.

 

VSC is a member-based organisation that receives financial support from the Sunshine Coast Council, Gympie Shire Council and Tourism and Events Queensland.

 

VSC markets the Sunshine Coast locally, nationally and internationally through strategic brand and tactical marketing activities, planning and development support as well as promoting the region as a Business Events destination.

 

In the most recent International Visitor Survey statistics, the Sunshine Coast recorded a 7.1% increase in international visitor nights (to 2.9 million) in the year ending March 2016, while holiday nights were up 29% to 1.6 million, and international tourism expenditure increased 17.8% to $236 million, close to the record reached in March 2010.

 

The CEO’s position is responsible for the strategic and tactical operations of VSC, including governance, sustainability, setting and meeting the strategic direction set by the Board in collaboration with the management team. The CEO will engage and consolidate strong working relationships with VSC members, local/State Government and all related industry and community stakeholders.

 

Answering to a Board made up of experienced industry and local professionals, the CEO’s role is a highly visible and influential role that will be instrumental in driving the Sunshine Coast’s most significant economic sector.

 

The Visit Sunshine Coast Board is seeking an experienced leader with considerable achievements in strategic tourism marketing and development, backed by established industry networks both locally and internationally. Candidates should be at the forefront of digital and social media initiatives, with a considerable level of commercial acumen and direct experience of working in an operating environment in the tourism industry. 

 

Photo caption: Glasshouse Mountains Sunshine Coast