Talking Tourism Episode 97 - Why Tassie's In A Sweet Spot with Grant O'Brien

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Recorded27 Feb 2022

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We thought it was time to get to know Grant O'Brien, the new Chair of Tourism Tasmania, better. Having grown up in the state's north-west, Grant began employment with Woolworths in the mid-80s as an Assistant Accountant. By 2011, he'd risen through the ranks to become CEO and Managing Director at Woolworths Limited, a position he held until 2016. Not one to rest on his laurels, Grant's "retirement" saw him go on to be appointed Chair of the Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority in 2019, a role that fitted the mould of his desire to give back to the local community. It was here that Grant's appreciation for Tassie's sweet spot as a visitor destination was cemented, and it's with these insights that he brought his enthusiasm and passion for the state to his role with Tourism Tasmania in October last year. In today's episode, TICT's Luke Martin chats with Grant about what he sees as priorities for the Tasmanian tourism industry, and you might be surprised to find that he doesn't think attracting visitation is up there. He also unpacks the most surprising parts of coming into the industry from a non-tourism background, and even offers his opinion on whether Tassie will get its own AFL team!Today’s episode is brought to you by our partner, Steadfast Taswide. Steadfast Taswide is part of the largest insurance broker network in Australasia. With close to 50 staff located across offices in Hobart, Launceston, Devonport and Burnie, they offer a full suite of business insurance advice, and all Tourism Accredited businesses who engage Steadfast Taswide Insurance Brokers receive a 25% discount on their annual Tourism Accreditation fees. No catch, it’s just a small incentive to encourage you to support a Tasmanian business. Thanks to Steadfast Taswide for their generous support of TICT and for helping to make this episode of Talking Tourism possible.Tourism Industry Council TasmaniaTICT is the peak industry body for the Tasmanian tourism industry. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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