Tourism Fiji is entering a new chapter with the recent appointment of Dr. Paresh Pant as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), a decision that marks a significant shift for the organization and the country’s tourism sector. Dr. Pant, who has extensive experience in tourism, hospitality, and aviation, takes on this role with over 25 years of experience across Fiji, Australia, and New Zealand, including notable positions such as Regional Director for New Zealand and Australia. His proven track record in promoting visitor growth and implementing recovery strategies during challenging times makes him well-suited to lead the organization into a robust future.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Viliame Gavoka, expressed his confidence in Dr. Pant’s leadership potential, viewing his appointment as a strategic move to bolster Fiji’s tourism industry. Gavoka praised the Tourism Fiji Board and its outgoing Chair for their commendable leadership during the organization’s ongoing transformation.
In his inaugural address, Dr. Pant highlighted the unique offerings of Fiji that set the destination apart from others, emphasizing that it’s not just about the beautiful beaches but primarily about the warm-hearted people and rich culture. He paid homage to the efforts of previous leadership, acknowledging their significant contributions that have laid a solid foundation for future growth.
This leadership transition follows the tenure of former CEO Brent Hill, which was marked by substantial growth in visitor numbers and the introduction of innovative campaigns like “Where Happiness Comes Naturally.” Under Hill’s leadership, Tourism Fiji saw an influx of 735,154 visitors from January to September of this year, reflecting an overall increase in tourism and generating around $320 million in revenue from primarily holidaying travelers.
Tourism Fiji is focusing on its commitment to inclusivity and resilience in collaboration with government bodies, industry partners such as Fiji Airways, and local communities. Dr. Pant’s vision includes working closely with stakeholders to cultivate experiences that embody the essence of Fiji and to promote sustainable tourism practices that benefit both visitors and the local population.
As the tourism sector thrives, this leadership shift brings renewed optimism about the country’s potential to attract visitors while maintaining its commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement. With a robust strategy in place and strong leadership, the future of tourism in Fiji looks promising, fostering hope for continued success on the global stage.