A new name has been added to the board of Destination BC, and it’s a familiar one for local residents. Former Quesnel mayor and past Cariboo North MLA Bob Simpson is now at the leadership table for the provincial Crown corporation dedicated to strengthening the tourism industry.
The Cariboo is a tourism heavyweight in B.C., so adding Simpson addresses this region’s position in the broader provincial conversation.
In their introduction of Simpson, Destination BC described him as “an independent consultant specializing in the areas of government relations and community economic development… and led the community through a highly successful rebranding initiative and the development of a community transition strategy which included an increased emphasis on amenities investments and tourism marking and promotion.”
His history within the Legislature was cited as an advantage, due to his extensive travel throughout the province on behalf of committees, shadow cabinet work, economic development issues, and more.
“The vast majority of these deliberations involved thoughtful discussions about the role that tourism could and would play in the province’s future,” said Destination BC. “He is an avid mountain biker, competitive road cyclist and triathlete, whitewater canoeist, ocean kayaker, and loves both downhill and cross-country skiing. His outdoor interests have seen him take advantage of B.C.’s major resorts, parks, and wilderness areas.”
According to the Destination BC organization, their programs help to improve the visitor experience, support businesses and communities across the province, “and strengthen B.C.’s worldwide reputation as a destination of choice.” The agency supports a “strong and competitive future for B.C.’s tourism industry through a combination of global marketing, destination development, industry learning, cooperative community-based programs, and visitor servicing.”
There are nine board members. Prince Rupert Port Authority’s Brian Friesen was also named to the board at the same time as Simpson.
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