BHTA CEO to demit office in June

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) Rudy Grant is moving on after six years at the helm of the group which represents over 300 entities.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the BHTA announced that Grant will leave at the end of June to pursue other career opportunities.

It said Grant will be integral in the process of recruiting his successor and an interim CEO will be appointed to head the association during the period of transition.

BHTA Chairman Renee Coppin praised Grant’s contribution to the organisation during his tenure, describing him as an asset.

“Rudy brought a high level of professionalism and dedication to the BHTA as he directed and managed the association’s activities to ensure that our strategic goals and the relevant needs of our members were met.

“His commitment, particularly over the past two-years during the COVID-19 pandemic, has been outstanding. We are grateful for his invaluable leadership through one of the most unprecedented periods in the history of our industry and thank him for his guidance,” Coppin said.

Grant expressed satisfaction with his experience at the BHTA, saying it was rewarding and fulfilling.

“The diversity in our membership and the varying issues which the CEO is required to focus on has made every day exciting. COVID-19 has negatively impacted the tourism industry and has complicated how we function. However, the immensely long hours and numerous intense meetings have provided invaluable knowledge and experience which I would not trade for anything.

“One of the lessons for me from COVID-19 is that through collaboration and partnership, respecting and facilitating varying views, demonstrating a willingness to compromise and having the determination to succeed, we can overcome whatever obstacles confront us,” he said.

Grant also expressed gratitude to the BHTA team and partners for their support and assured that he remained committed to assisting with the development of the tourism sector.
(BT/PR)