Monday 25 November 2013
The Commerce and Employment Department has appointed a new Director of Marketing and Tourism. Former Group Marketing Director at Vets4Pets, Mike Hopkins, will start in the post today.
Mr Hopkins has over 25 years experience in sales and marketing and has held senior positions in companies including Sony, ICI, Yell and BT. During his time at Vets4Pets, he helped successfully establish the company as the leading veterinary group brand in the UK. An Industrial Design and Engineering graduate and Marketing and Finance post-graduate, Mr Hopkins and his family moved to Guernsey five years ago and have embraced island life.
He said he was delighted to accept the post.
"During the five years I have lived in Guernsey I have grown to love the island, it is a wonderful place with so much to offer. It has both challenges and opportunities ahead and I am really looking forward to working with my new team and those involved in the tourism industry to help promote and establish Guernsey as a top choice destination for leisure and business visitors."
A keen sailor, Mr Hopkins has attained both Day Skipper and Yacht Master qualifications since moving to the island. He is married with two sons.
Commerce and Employment Minister, Deputy Kevin Stewart, said he was looking forward to welcoming him to the team.
"Mike brings with him a wealth of experience and will be a valuable addition to the team. I am looking forward to seeing how he will lead the visitor economy marketing strategy and product development into 2014 and beyond."
The Department's chief officer, Jason Moriarty, was delighted Mr Hopkins had accepted the full time position.
"Mike's professionalism and ability with business and marketing is very evident and I am confident he will be a great asset to the tourism sector, the C&E Department and the States of Guernsey."
The Chamber of Commerce is working with the industry to establish the foundations and framework for a collaborative tourism strategy. Chairman of Chamber of Commerce's hospitality and tourism sub-group Luke Wheadon said:
"On behalf of the industry I wish to welcome Mr Hopkins and very much look forward to building relationships in the future."
Over the coming weeks, Mr Hopkins will commence a series of industry and wider stakeholder engagements, with a formal introduction to the industry at a tourism forum being planned for January.
-ENDS-
