Tourism minister Cardigan Connor has appointed Amelia Vanterpool-Kubisch as chair of the Anguilla Tourist Board (ATB)’s board of directors.
The former director of tourism, who began her career in Anguilla’s public tourism sector in 1978, brings a wealth of experience to the role.
In a press release on 7 April, Vanterpool-Kubisch said she was deeply honoured by the confidence the government has placed in her to lead the ATB.
“Our sales and marketing strategies must adapt to the diverse and emerging platforms that now shape consumer behaviour,” she said.
“I am fully committed to this role and will dedicate myself to the tasks ahead.”
Connor presented his nominees for the board of directors to Premier Cora Richardson-Hodge and the Executive Council for approval prior to the official announcement.
The newly appointed board consists of private-sector tourism industry professionals representing accommodations, restaurants, transportation and events.
Members include tourism consultant Merlyn Rogers; Likerah Adams, chair of the Boat Racing Association; and Allister Carty, an executive expert in ground transportation.
Merla Halley, general manager of Quintessence Hotel, Sean Richards, general manager of Altamer Resort, and Miguel Leveret, general manager of Blanchards are also members.
‘Full spectrum’
On announcing the appointment, Connor said Vanterpool-Kubisch is well positioned to help drive the success of Anguilla’s tourism industry thanks to her familiarity with the ATB.
“She will be supported by a dynamic board that truly reflects the full spectrum of the industry,” the tourism minister continued in the press release.
“I am confident that this team will provide strong leadership and uphold the highest standards of accountability for the organisation.”
Vanterpool-Kubisch was the first employee of the newly established Tourism Offices in 1978.
In 1994, the Anguilla Tourist Board (ATB) was created, leading to the development and opening of its permanent offices in April 2003.
Over the years, Vanterpool-Kubisch steadily advanced through the ranks and, after three decades of dedicated service, retired in 2008 as the Director of Tourism for the ATB.
“She held this leadership role for 16 years, leaving an indelible mark on Anguilla’s tourism industry, the island’s largest source of foreign exchange,”
Vanterpool-Kubisch’s contributions to Anguilla’s tourism industry has earned her several prestigious honours, including the Anguilla Pioneer Award in 2011 and the Anguilla Trailblazer Award in 2021.
