The board of directors of the Barbados Tourism Authority has announced Petra Roach, vice president of marketing and sales, UK, will assume the role of interim president and chief executive.

Over the past twelve years, Roach has been a driving force for the Barbados Tourism Authority in the UK market, developing key campaigns including the British Airways Football Legends Invitational Tournament and the Top Gear Festival Barbados, as well as pushing for the ratifying of Britain’s Air Passenger Duty, which was reformed earlier this year.

She is also a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, and sits on the boards of the Branson Centre for Entrepreneurship, the Sport for Life charity, and the Caribbean Tourism Organisation, UK.

Chairman Adrian Elcock stated: “Ms Roach has been instrumental in delivering exceptional results in our main source market, the UK, for the past twelve years.

“Known for her passion for Barbados and her innovative, strategic approach to marketing the destination, Roach’s tireless work has led to the establishment of strong relationships across Europe, increased exposure for Barbados, and to several industry awards for the Authority.

“We look forward to the invaluable contributions she will make to the Barbados Tourism Authority as we continue to confidently tackle challenges and create opportunities for Barbados in the global travel and tourism industry.