Welcome for new tourism leader

EAST of England Tourism yesterday named its new chairman, following the retirement of Derek Langslow after four-and-a-half years in the role.

EAST of England Tourism today named its new chairman, following the retirement of Derek Langslow after four-and-a-half years in the role.

Beverly Hurley successful held leadership roles in a number of businesses before being appointed chief executive of YTKO, a business consultancy specialising in creating and growing successful private sector businesses.

She is an Enterprise Fellow at the University of East Anglia, a member of the European Centre for Women in Technology, and a Women’s Enterprise ambassador, and earlier this year was honoured with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion.

“This is an exciting time to be joining East of England Tourism,” she said.

“Tourism in this area has enjoyed one of the fastest growing visitor economies in England, but the competitive nature of today’s market means we have to innovate and deliver even better results to maintain our leading position. I look forward to contributing to that goal.”

Dr Langslow said: “I’m delighted to welcome Bev as my successor and wish her and EET well. Over recent years, EET directors and staff have tirelessly promoted the East. Last year tourism grew faster in our area than anywhere else in England and our website is increasingly popular. The East of England has so much to offer a discerning visitor.”

Keith Brown, chief executive of East of England Tourism, added: “Bev’s excellent track record of innovation and business growth ideally suits our own needs as an organisation. With the new focus on localism, her experience of building successful partnerships with both the public and private sectors will be a great asset for our organisation.”