Simmonds appointed Tourism Alliance chairman
Brigid Simmonds OBE, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA), has been appointed as the new Tourism Alliance chairman.
Simmonds, who will replace outgoing chairman Ken Robinson CBE, was presented in her new role by Tourism minister John Penrose at today's (July 13) Tourism Alliance AGM.
The Tourism Alliance was established in 2001 to promote quality in the tourism industry and lobby government on all key issues relevant to the growth and development of tourism and its contribution to the economy. It comprises leading trade associations and trade bodies within the sector.
Penrose said: "Next year is very important for the tourism industry with the implementation of the Government's new Tourism Policy, the work of the Regulation Taskforce and, of course, the major tourism events of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympics.
"With Brigid's appointment as the new Chairman, the Tourism Alliance is well placed to help deliver these initiatives for the Tourism Industry."
Earlier this year, the government's Growth Strategy identified the UK Tourism industry as one of seven sectors that are uniquely placed to help rebalance and rebuild the UK economy and the Tourism Alliance's work is currently focusing on providing advice on how tourism can best this provide additional revenue and employment.
Commenting on her appointment, Simmonds said: "I am very pleased to have been appointed to this position and look forward to representing the diverse interests of our tourism industry.
"The Government has set some challenging targets for the growth of both the inbound and domestic tourism sectors over the next four years and, I'm committed to ensure that the Alliance maintains and builds on its important role as a conduit between the industry and Government to ensure these targets are met"
Ralph Findlay, chairman of the British Beer & Pub Association, and chief executive of Marston's, added: "Many congratulations to Brigid on her appointment. With pubs so iconic and crucial to the UK tourism industry, they should be at the heart of a new tourism strategy. This is a great fit with Brigid's BBPA role, and I know she will champion the tourism sector as a whole."
