Local and state government stalwart Karen Jones has stepped into the role as Acting CEO of Destination NSW, steering the marketing organisation for an interim six-month period during the recruitment process for a permanent Chief Executive Officer.
Effective from 13 January 2025, Jones will lead Destination NSW through this transitional phase, bringing more than 27 years’ government leadership experience, most recently as the Office of Sport CEO where she led key initiatives.
She has also worked closely with the DMO on several high-profile event projects, demonstrating her ability to drive collaboration and results.
Jones takes over the reins from Acting CEO Stephen Mahoney, who returns to his former role after covering former CEO Steve Cox since his departure in November 2024.
Destination NSW Chairman Sally Loane said: “Karen is a proven leader with exceptional skills in forging partnerships and achieving results.”
“Under Karen’s leadership, this is an exciting new chapter for the organisation with a sharper focus on experience-led tourism and a new Visitor Economy Strategy in development.”
Jones shared the news on Linkedin: “I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been appointed as the Acting Chief Executive for Destination NSW, starting mid-January 2025 for up to six months. This is an opportunity to contribute to the talented team at Destination NSW and promote the vibrant, world-class destinations across the state.”
“I am honoured to lead the dedicated team at Destination NSW as we champion the state’s world-class visitor experiences. Together, we will continue delivering the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy to ensure NSW remains Australia’s top destination and events capital.
“Destination NSW has a remarkable legacy of showcasing our state to the world. I look forward to working with our industry partners to achieve the NSW Government’s goal of $91 billion in annual visitor expenditure by 2035,” she said.
Find out more at destinationnsw.com.au
