Thursday, August 24, 2023

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

New CEO Announced For Mackay Isaac Tourism

A Whitsunday Regional Councillor has been named as the new Chief Executive Officer of Mackay Isaac Tourism following a gruelling interview process which saw applicants from across the country vie for the job.

Al Grundy, has 26 years’ experience in tourism, operating an extensive charter boat company for much of the time and more recently becoming Chair of the Board for Tourism Whitsundays.

He was elected as division two councillor for Whitsunday Regional Council two and a half years ago and has now resigned from the position to pursue his dreams of leading a team and creating change within the industry.

Having already been equipped with the right skillset and his strong passion for the tourism industry, Mr Grundy says he is raring to go and already has a clear direction on how he will steer the organisation and region to greater heights.

“I am excited to be given this responsibility of leading the region and the team at Mackay Isaac Tourism,” he said.

“I hope my years of experience will be an asset and I look forward to meeting the industry and working closely with them to shine a spotlight on the best of what the Mackay Isaac region has to offer to the world!”

Al is no stranger to the Mackay Isaac area, having worked on a number of local Committees including the Mackay Isaac Whitsundays Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership for seven years and the Greater Whitsundays Council of Mayors Suicide Prevention Taskforce for 18 months.

“I already have links with Mayor Baker and Mayor Williamson, which really helped with my decision to take this role,” he said.

“I am looking forward to working within both Council areas, growing memberships and new opportunities both coastal and outback.”

Mackay Isaac Tourism Chair Councillor Justin Englert said he is confident the new appointment will bring tremendous strengths to not only the organisation but also the region.

“With new ideas, a fresh approach and innovative concepts, backed by a strong tourism marketing and business background, the organisation is in good hands,” he said.

“The board of directors at Mackay Isaac Tourism is excited about this new appointment and with Al’s significant background in the tourism industry, I am sure his ability to identify new opportunities will drive growth for our Mackay Isaac Region.”

Starting his role on Monday October 17, Al will reside in Mackay during the week, returning to the Whitsundays to be with his family on the weekends.

Current interim Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Tash Wheeler will be finishing shortly after Al commences the role.

Image: New Mackay Isaac Tourism Chief Executive Officer Al Grundy

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