New chairman appointed to Highland Tourism Partnership
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Michael Golding, chief executive of Visit Inverness Loch Ness, has been appointed the new chairman of the Highland Tourism Partnership.
As a partnership of destination marketing organisations in the region, the HTP collectively represents more than 1,000 businesses in Highland from across all sectors – hotels, B&Bs, attractions, tours and food and drink.
At their last meeting, members thanked previous chairman Frazer Coupland, chief executive of Lochaber Chamber of Commerce, for his time at the helm over two and a half years. During this time, the group met regularly, sharing information particularly relating to recovery support available for businesses.
Among other successes, Mr Coupland spearheaded the collaborative two-year Highland Winter Campaign, to support business recovery.
As well as appointing Mr Golding - who is also a board member on the Scottish Tourism Alliance and member of the Tourism & Hospitality Industry Leadership Group – members also appointed the group’s first vice-chairman, Craig Mills, director of operations of North Coast 500.
A range of topics was discussed, including how to improve and develop relationships between the private and public sectors, ensuring the needs of the industry are known and heard.
Discussions were also had on how the partnership can maximise the impact of key industry events and engage the industry across the whole of the Highlands.
To find opportunities to influence and collaborate, members shared their activity relating to Net Zero, government engagement, strategic aims, film tourism, national industry leadership, VisitScotland’s travel trade event - Connect 2023, international trade, visitor management, visitor survey and regional economic partnerships.
The partnership has committed to meeting seven times throughout the next year and being a strong and visible leadership presence.
The new chairman said: “I hope to harness the incredible knowledge and skills of the partnership members and everyone they represent.
"By doing this, the Highland Tourism Partnership will represent thousands of tourism businesses and continue to play a unique and influential role in the future of tourism in the Highlands and Scotland.”
Vice chair Craig Mills said: “I am delighted that North Coast 500 is a member of The Highland Council's Tourism Partnership - we are privileged to contribute to the growth and prosperity of the Scottish Highlands.
“In collaboration with this network, we strive to elevate the tourism industry, promoting the diverse communities and experiences that our region offers. Together, we forge a path of innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, ensuring that visitors from around the world can discover the unparalleled beauty and warm hospitality that define the Highlands.”
