Whistler-Blackcomb’s Dave Brownlie has joined the board of Tourism British Columbia.
"We have only had one board meeting, said Whistler-Blackcomb COO Brownlie this week, "and I am excited about what the opportunities are for us."
Whistler has had a strong presence on the board through Mike Duggan, former general manager of the Pan Pacific. He now takes up an ex-officio role as past chairman.
Brownlie said the board is tasked with looking out for what is best for all of British Columbia when it comes to tourism.
"When you step onto the board you are supposed to leave (your own interests) behind and look at what is best for Tourism B.C.," he said. But it’s impossible to ignore the impact Whistler has on tourism for the province as it is one of the major destinations for travellers who come from near and far.
And there is no doubt, said Brownlie, that hosting the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver and Whistler will afford the well-funded organization some excellent opportunities to get B.C.’s message out to the world.
Brownlie and Stuart Rempel are Whistler-Blackcomb’s representatives on the board of Tourism Whistler.
Four others were appointed to the Board. They are the Former Royal British Columbia Museum Director Bill Barkley, Hell’s Gate Airtram General Manager Debbie McKinney, Links Investments Principal Mike Smith and Walker Hospitality President Kevin Walker.
"The impressive mix of experienced industry professionals and entrepreneurs on Tourism B.C.’s Board of Directors will provide the leadership necessary to strategically guide the corporation’s activities in the important time leading up to the Olympics," said Minister of Tourism, Sport and the Arts Olga Ilich.
"Clearly, tourism growth will be one of the most important measurements of our province’s success in hosting the Games."
Tourism B.C. is the Crown corporation responsible for marketing the Super, Natural British Columbia brand to the world. The corporation’s mandate is to promote development and growth in the tourism industry, to increase revenues and employment throughout British Columbia, and to increase the economic benefits generated by the tourism industry for all British Columbians.
The corporation is governed by an industry-based 15-member board of directors.
