News

DA unhappy over new tourism CEO

November 20, 2009 Edition 1

The appointment of Thandiwe Sylvia January-McLean as the chief executive officer of South African Tourism (SAT) received a mix reaction yesterday.

Michael Tatalias, the chief executive officer of the Southern African Tourism Services Association, said January-McLean's diplomatic and business experience would give SAT "a strong interface" with the government.

"For us, representing as we do the many companies in the private sector of inbound tourism, her appointment comes as we are all making ready to deliver the very best possible experience of our country to all those who will visit in 2010 for the soccer World Cup," said Tatalias.

January-McLean is the present ambassador to Portugal.

Tourism Minister Marthinus Van Schalkwyk announced her appointment on Wednesday. She will serve for three years and will start her duties on January 1.

DA spokeswoman Marian Shinn said January-McLean's lack of experience would be a challenge to tourism growth.

"The DA expresses its disappointment at the appointment of an SA Tourism CEO who is unknown in the industry and lacks the business and top-level management experience the position demands," said Shinn.

"Apart from hosting South African promotional events in Portugal, her career background reveals no experience in the tourism industry and certainly no strategic planning expertise." - Sapa