NI Tourist Board Chief Resigns

Alan Clarke has stepped down from his position as Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB), following 13 years in the position.

Commenting on his decision, Mr Clarke said: "It has been a huge privilege to lead the Northern Ireland Tourist Board since 2001 during a period of significant investment, development and growth in tourism in Northern Ireland, and a seismic change in how the destination is perceived around the globe. The confidence of the Northern Ireland tourism industry is at an all time high following last week’s Giro d’Italia, and other major investments over recent years, and therefore this is a good time for me to step down.

"During my time as NITB Chief Executive I have been fortunate to have helped steer tourism through a £300m investment by the public and private sectors. This has included MTV, ni2012 Our Time Our Place, the opening of Titanic Belfast and Causeway visitor centre, the Irish Open, significant investment in Derry~Londonderry leading to UK City of Culture, and the phenomenal impact of the Giro that we have just witnessed. I have no doubt that these secure building blocks will carry tourism forward into the next decade as mainstream within the Northern Ireland economy."

Tourism Minister Arlene Foster said: "During Alan’s 13 year tenure at the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, the tourism landscape has changed considerably and the industry has grown to a new level.

"As Chief Executive, Alan has had oversight of the development of our tourism signature projects with the launch of Titanic Belfast and the opening of the new Causeway Visitors Centre in 2012, as well as the development of the built heritage in Londonderry - a spectacular backdrop to the City of Culture last year.

"He has also championed the development of our nine local tourism destinations and has worked closely with the industry to ensure we grow as a destination that is an attractive one for visitors from far and near. I wish Alan well and hope he has a long and happy retirement."

NITB chairman Howard Hastings said: "I would like to thank Alan for his excellent work in presiding over a step change in Northern Ireland tourism. The list of achievements on his watch is extraordinary, from vision to delivery of the five Signature Projects through to the successful hosting of numerous major events to showcase the new Northern Ireland to global audiences.

"He has set tourism on course to truly fulfil its potential in the years ahead. Alan had a clear vision of where tourism needed to be. Over the years he has steadfastly championed its potential, helped secure necessary investment, steered award winning marketing activity and driven a partnership approach across Government, public and private sectors. I speak on behalf of the board in expressing our gratitude to Alan and best wishes for the future."

(IT)