Hawaii is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world that attracts millions of tourists every year. The Hawaii Tourism Authority is a state agency responsible for promoting Hawaii as a premier travel destination. It was established in 1998 and operates under the direction of a Board of Directors.
Who is on the board?
The Board of Directors consists of thirteen members who are appointed by the governor of Hawaii. The members are selected based on their expertise and experience in the tourism industry, education, and cultural practices.
What are their responsibilities?
The Board of Directors is responsible for setting policies and initiatives that promote tourism in Hawaii while also maintaining a balance between economic growth and sustainable tourism practices. They work closely with various stakeholders including government agencies, businesses, and community groups to ensure that tourism benefits everyone involved.
Who runs the Hawaii Tourism Authority?
The Hawaii Tourism Authority is run by a President and CEO who oversees all operations of the agency. Currently, John De Fries serves as President and CEO, appointed by Governor David Ige in 2020.
John De Fries brings over three decades of experience working in various sectors including hospitality, real estate, and entertainment to his role at HTA. He previously served as CEO of Hokulia for five years before becoming president of Native Sun Business Group Inc., which provides consulting services to native Hawaiian organizations.
What are his plans for HTA?
De Fries has outlined several priorities during his tenure at HTA, including improving tourism infrastructure in rural areas, diversifying visitor experiences beyond traditional sun-and-beach activities, and promoting sustainable tourism practices to protect Hawaii’s natural resources.
- Rural Tourism: De Fries recognizes that many rural communities rely heavily on tourism for economic growth but often lack the infrastructure to support visitors. He plans to work with local stakeholders to identify and address these issues.
- Diversification: De Fries believes that Hawaii has much more to offer visitors beyond just beaches and resorts.
He plans to work with local businesses and communities to create new visitor experiences such as cultural tours, adventure activities, and culinary experiences.
- Sustainability: De Fries is committed to protecting Hawaii’s natural resources while also promoting tourism. He plans to work with HTA partners to develop sustainable tourism practices that minimize the impact on the environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Hawaii Tourism Authority is responsible for promoting Hawaii as a premier travel destination while also preserving its natural resources and cultural heritage. The agency is led by a President and CEO who brings extensive experience in various sectors. John De Fries has outlined several priorities during his tenure at HTA, including improving tourism infrastructure in rural areas, diversifying visitor experiences beyond traditional sun-and-beach activities, and promoting sustainable tourism practices.