VisitBritain announced two major international appointments with Gavin Landry named Executive Vice President, International, and Paul Gauger stepping into Executive Vice President, The Americas, Australia & New Zealand with both roles based in New York City.
The move comes as Australia sets a record for inbound visitor value to the UK and bolsters VisitBritain’s executive presence internationally amid a strong travel rebound.
Mr Landry will oversee the strategic direction of VisitBritain’s global teams across Europe, the Americas, the Gulf Cooperation Council countries (GCC), and Asia Pacific.
“It is a privilege to lead the overseas network and work alongside these talented teams of dedicated tourism professionals,” he said.
“Our priority continues to be rebuilding international visitor value and strengthening our relationships across trade, commercial partnerships and media to ensure Britain remains the destination of choice.”
Mr Gauger will lead the travel trade, marketing, partnerships and communications teams in Sydney, São Paolo, Toronto, New York City, Los Angeles and San Diego with responsibility for driving increased value to the UK visitor economy from these key markets.
“I look forward to the continued success of The Americas region, which now includes the addition of Australia and New Zealand. As an Australian, I’m thrilled to once again be supporting this market,” Mr Gauger said.
“Together with our dedicated travel trade partners, we will continue to convert inspiration into bookings and welcome visitors to discover what’s new in Britain in 2023.”
The Great Rebound
Last year, Australia was the UK’s third most valuable international source market with inbound visits and spending exceeding 2019 levels by 13 per cent.
Flight bookings from Australia to the UK continue to show strong growth with recent inbound flight bookings in early January surpassing 2019 levels by 17 per cent.
VisitBritain Country Manager for Australia & New Zealand Maria Sykes said: “We are thrilled to be joining The Americas region and working more closely with our colleagues in the US, Canada and Brazil.”
“With the pace of Australia and New Zealand’s recovery at record-breaking levels, we’re delighted to have Paul Gauger at the helm alongside Gavin Landry’s dedicated leadership at this pivotal time.”
For more info, head to visitbritain.org
