Visit Bath has announced the appointment of a new interim CEO, Kathryn Davis, the Head of Tourism at Destination Bristol, who will be working at the organisation until spring 2020.
The role will include overseeing all areas of the business during the secondment period, including the Visitor Information Centre on Terrace Walk, the implementation of Bath Christmas Market, destination marketing and commercial activity.
Currently Head of Tourism at Destination Bristol, Kathryn has more than 25 years’ experience in the tourism and hospitality industry, almost 20 of which is working with Destination Management Organisations, both in marketing, commercial and visitor experience.
In November 2018, she was presented with the award for Outstanding Achievement in Tourism at the Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism Awards.
Kathryn said: “I am thrilled to be part of the Visit Bath team and look forward to being able to work with members, partners and stakeholders in the strategic development and delivery of the visitor economy in Bath and North East Somerset.”
Immediate priorities include establishing a new stakeholder and membership communication programme, delivering a business plan and destination management plan and developing strategic partnerships within the region, including a closer working partnership with Bristol and the surrounding areas.
The Board of Directors stated: “We are delighted to have Kathryn join Visit Bath and lead on delivering our core services to support and develop the visitor economy of Bath and the surrounding area.
“Kathryn brings extensive tourism marketing and destination management experience to the role, as well as an ability to forge strong and enduring partnerships that will ensure that Bath continues to be a leading destination both regionally, and for our national and international visitors.”
Councillor Dine Romero, leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, added: “I welcome Kathryn’s appointment to Visit Bath and the expertise she brings to the role, as well as the opportunity for a closer working partnership with Bristol and the surrounding areas.”
The Board of Directors has also been transformed with the appointment of 6 new directors, bringing with them a wide range of relevant skills and experience to support the senior management team.
Kathryn will continue to oversee tourism activity at Destination Bristol two days a week during her secondment.
