New RTONZ Chair announced

New RTONZ Chair announced

Regional Tourism Organisations New Zealand (RTONZ) has a new Chair.

Graham Budd, CEO of Destination Queenstown, has been elected incoming Chair of RTONZ taking over from David Perks who is remaining as a North Island trustee.

Graham has held the position of CEO of Destination Queenstown for four years, having joined as the General Manager Marketing in 2007, after a 25 year corporate career in a variety of businesses. This included the oil industry, fast moving consumer goods, publishing and agriculture.

He has been an active RTONZ Trustee since 2011, with a strong belief in the critical role RTOs play in the New Zealand tourism landscape.

Graham has a strong understanding of the wide scope of RTO ownership, the critical role local government has in supporting regional tourism and the significant changes and opportunities Regional Tourism Organisations face going forward.

He commented on accepting the position that “while representing one of New Zealand’s larger tourism regions I am very mindful that I represent all RTO’s equally and fairly at all levels”.

“Having strong senior industry and government relationships I believe will allow me to lead the organisation effectively and continue the excellent leadership that David Perks has demonstrated over the last 6 years”, Graham said.

His experience is extensive, having contributed to many successful outcomes and joint ventures including;

Ski Tourism Marketing Network
Downtown Queenstown Board
Study Queenstown Board
Southern Lakes International Marketing Alliance
Chair Queenstown Winter Festival Advisory Board

Graham is also a member of the New Zealand Institute of Directors.

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