TIA Chief Executive stepping down
Chris Roberts to recharge batteries and seek new challenges
After seven years as chief executive of Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA), a period which has seen him achieve huge success for the organisation, Chris Roberts will be stepping down from the role on January 31, 2022.
In a statement TIA chair, Gráinne Troute said Mr Roberts had advised he was contemplating his next career move at the start of 2020, but decided to remain with TIA to support the industry through the impact of the pandemic.
After an intense 18 months, he will now “recharge his batteries and seek a fresh challenge.”
Mr Roberts’ long list of achievements from his time at TIA include the Tourism Sustainability Commitment, the Tourism 2025 and Beyond framework, and the Go With Tourism program.
TIA-managed events including TRENZ, Tourism Summit Aotearoa and the reintroduced New Zealand Tourism Awards which Ms Troute said have been lifted to a new standard.
“Chris has also been a personal advocate for greater recognition of Tikanga, Te Ao Māori and the incorporation of Māori values in tourism,” she said.
“TIA has secured dozens of advocacy wins for the industry over the years and Chris has built a talented and dedicated team that strives every day to make a difference for Aotearoa.
“This team has re-focused its support for individual members facing the challenges of COVID, and appreciation for this effort is clearly evident in the recently completed membership survey.
“The board thanks Chris for his contribution and wishes him all the best for his future endeavours.”
Mr Roberts’ service will be formally recognised closer to his intended end date. In the meantime, he will continue to lead the TIA team and the board will commence its process for recruiting a new CEO.
Mike Parker-Brown is a UK-trained and qualified journalist and an award-winning travel communicator with more than 30 years experience.
Since 2002, Mike has worked as a freelance writer and PR consultant providing his services to major organisations in Australia and internationally in the tourism, aviation, hospitality, recruitment and export marketing sectors.
