Mike Duggan, general manager of Whistler’s Pan Pacific Lodge, was named the new chair of Tourism British Columbia at a board of directors meeting held here last month.
"I am very excited about helping build on Tourism BC’s success," Duggan said. "With global competition intensifying, our organization must continue to increase marketing efforts to ensure long-term growth.
"I’m looking forward to working with my fellow board members in establishing a clear vision for the work ahead."
Duggan’s vision for Tourism BC’s future includes attracting Chinese tourists through, what he called, an "approved destination status."
That status will boost the province’s chances of attracting leisure travellers from China, not just business travellers. "That’s what we’re really after," Duggan told Pique Newsmagazine .
He also plans to increase awareness among B.C. residents about the benefits of tourism. The industry is projected to generate almost $10 billion in revenue this year and currently employs one-in-13 workers in the province.
Duggan brings an impressive and experienced resume – including 19 years in various marketing positions at Vernon’s Silver Star resort and four years as executive director of the Kamloops-based Tourism Sun Peaks – to his new position.
The local hotelier has also served as the marketing committee chair of the Canada West Ski Areas Association, the Canadian Ski Council and the Thompson-Okanagan Tourism Association.
"Mike Duggan is a highly respected member of our tourism industry," said Tourism BC president and CEO Rod Harris. "His broad range of experience in a variety of tourism activities, including adventure and eco-tourism, will provide the board with particularly useful insight and leadership."
Duggan has been on Tourism BC’s board of directors since 1999.
Tourism BC is an independent Crown corporation, which operates under the direction of an industry-led board of directors, and is responsible for marketing the Super, Natural British Columbia brand to the world.
