The former manager of Destination Worcestershire has been appointed to the position of Director of Tourism.  Rod (pictured) will replace Geoff Le Page, who retired on 31st October, and is scheduled to start in February 2010.

Rod's career experience encompasses theatre and event management as well as economic development and leisure services.  His most recent position with ‘Destination Worcestershire’ included overseeing a rebranding programme for the county as well as developing a green and sustainable tourism initiative.  

He was also responsible for creating the Worcestershire Welcome programme as part of a quality improvement initiative.  Other career highlights have included promoting ‘Robin Hood Country’ worldwide on behalf of Nottinghamshire Tourism and he has also led Northamptonshire’s tourist team.

Rod is a member of the Tourism Management Institute, the professional institute for destination management in the UK.  Away from the office he is a professional pyrotechnician firing fireworks displays around the country as well as an active volunteer with heritage railways, both of which he expects to carry on when he moves to the Island.

Rod commented, "I can’t wait to get to the Isle of Man and start work.  The Island has a huge amount of culture and activities as well as some world-class events and I’m looking forward to the challenge of making a contribution to its continued success."

Martyn Quayle MHK, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, commented, "We are delighted to have someone of Rod’s experience on board at a time when tourism is critical to the Island’s economy and I’m looking forward to working with him on the tourism infrastructure and on campaigns that will generate additional visitors to the Island."