Tourism Port Douglas Daintree has appointed Glen Hingley as its new CEO, enticing him to move from his role as head of strategy and acquisition at Northern Territory Major Events Company, where he has been for just five months. Previous to joining NTMEC, Hingley spent almost five years as general manager of Tourism Top End, the regional tourism body for the top end of the Northern Territory.
He also has significant experience in selling Australia into the Chinese market, including founding his own business to help tourism and products and destinations develop their profiles in China and more widely in Asia. He ran his business, Asian Tourism Resources, for more than 15 years.
“I am really looking forward to being part of one of the premier tourism destinations in Australia and working closely with our tourism industry as we seek to further the great work undertaken over many years,” said Hingley of his new role.
“This incredible region of Australia has long been acknowledged as a leading tourism destination for both Australian and international travellers.
“Now, having achieved formal accreditation as Australia’s first eco-tourism destination, the Port Douglas and Daintree region is strategically poised to continue its sustainable development of the visitor economy.
“This not only supports local communities but also aligns with the values of the World Heritage-listed Daintree rainforest and Great Barrier Reef.
“I am excited to join the small but mighty team in continuing on the great work of Tourism Port Douglas Daintree, listening to the needs of the industry in identifying further opportunities and strategically collaborating with key stakeholders such as the Douglas Shire Council and partner tourism organisations.”
Hingley is taking over from Tara Bennett who is moving over to Tourism Tropical North Queensland as its new general manager of partnerships and events, which includes heading up Business Events Cairns and Great Barrier Reef. Rosie Douglas, currently in that role, is leaving to take on consulting work.
“We would also like to thank and acknowledge our outgoing CEO Tara Bennett for her contribution over the last 16 years,” said chair of Tourism Port Douglas Daintree, Cam Charlton.
“Tara’s leadership and extensive commitment and contribution to TPDD and our destination during tumultuous times has been simply outstanding and we would like to wish her all the best in her new role at Tourism Tropical North Queensland.
“Glen’s wealth of experience and proven leadership skills make him the ideal choice to guide us into the next phase of growth and sustainability,” said Charlton.
Hingley begins at Tourism Port Douglas Daintree on November 27.
