The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) has established a new advisory board to help the destination increase business from the global MICE industry. In addition, to strengthening Jamaica’s position as a leading destination for meetings and incentive travel, the Board will ensure that the JTB’s Groups & Convention Department remains on the cutting edge of the latest industry trends.
“With the tourist industry beginning to see signs of recovery following the vaccination roll-out, it is projected that the MICE sector will experience a boost in its earnings in the second half of this year into 2022,” said John Woolcock, Jamaica Tourist Board groups and conventions manager, in a press announcement. “The establishment of this advisory board is seen as critical in ensuring that Jamaica is ready to take advantage of this lucrative niche market which is among the highest revenue contributor to the travel industry.”
A wide cross section of seasoned MICE professionals with a proven track record of bringing business to the destination comprise the advisory board. The inaugural members include:
Planners:
- Jason Altman – account executive (Landmark Incentives)
- Ellie Soucy – president and CEO (Incentive Meeting Services)
- Joost de Meyer – chairman and CEO (First Incentive Travel)
- Ellie Macpherson – senior vice president, Canada operations (Creative Group)
- Judy Meyers – president and CEO (HPM Associates)
- Steve Koth – sales director (Event Simple)
Suppliers Partners:
- Bert Wright – executive vice president (Jamaica Tours Limited)
- John Byles – executive director (Chukka Caribbean Adventures)
- Karron Benjamin – general manager (Montego Bay Convention Centre)
Jamaica Tourist Board:
- John Woolcock – groups and conventions manager
- Margaret Clarke – business development officer
- Dan Hamilton – district sales manager, Canada
The establishment of the advisory board forms part of the destination’s overall marketing strategy to increase visitor arrivals and will go a far way in positioning Jamaica favorably with meeting and incentive planners worldwide.
For more information on groups and incentive travel to Jamaica, visit www.visitjamaica.com.
Related Stories
New Event Venues at Jamaica's Tryall Club
Beach Enclave Turks & Caicos: Private Villa-Resort Meetings Are on the Rise
Bahamas’ Grand Lucayan Announces Reopening of Lighthouse Pointe
New Hotels, Convention Centers and Stadiums Earn GBAC STAR Facility Accreditation