New board member appointed to Tourism Bay of Plenty board

Jason Hill has been appointed by Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council to the Tourism Bay of Plenty board today.

Mayor Greg Brownless said he welcomed Hill to the board.

"Jason joins the board at an exciting time, overseeing and supporting the organisation to deliver on its key strategic priorities such as connecting with our residents and enhancing the visitor experience," Brownless said.

"He brings the skills and experience identified by the appointment panel that will enable Tourism Bay of Plenty to implement its destination management strategy, ensuring the balance of growth with social, cultural and environmental wellbeing of our community.

"The appointment of trustees to council-controlled organisations (CCOs) is one of the most important roles councils have to ensure agreed outcomes are effectively delivered by the CCO."

Des Hammond, Tourism Bay of Plenty chairman, said he was delighted to welcome Hill to the board.

"Jason has big shoes to fill, following on from Tania Bui, Jussara Bierman and Oliver Moorcroft, who have each made significant contributions to Tourism Bay of Plenty during their terms as trustees, for which we are extremely grateful. Jason brings vast and diversified experience and fantastic connections across the sector," Hammond said.

"Jason has considerable experience in both domestic and international tourism management, including former head of tourism for Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development for six years, where he led the development of Auckland's destination management strategy.

"Currently managing partner with Tourism Investment Partners, Jason has governance experience from various travel and cruise association boards. His skills and experience will be of great help to Tourism Bay of Plenty with the implementation of its destination management strategy.

"We're looking forward to working with Jason. His skill set and experience complement those of our current board members and will further enhance the contribution that the tourism sector brings to this region."

Tourism Bay of Plenty is a trust and CCO, jointly controlled by Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council. The two councils appointed the new trustee to the board, commencing November 1.

In May, the council adopted a revised version of its Appointment of Directors to Council Organisations Policy, defining the appointment of directors to CCOs. The key changes to the policy enable council to increase diversity across its CCO boards, be more involved in the appointment process, and continuously improve its processes to meet standards of best practice.