This newly created position is New York based where Walsh will spearhead VisitBritain’s initiatives across the US.
It focuses on implementing travel trade and communications strategies with the objective is to drive growth within the American market.
Among core duties, he will help deliver on collaboration with cross-government activities in the US.
VisitBritain’s EVP, The Americas, Australia & New Zealand, Paul Gauger said: “He brings extensive tourism knowledge to the role, drawing from decades of experience both in Britain and here in the US.”
“He has significant industry relationships and insight gained from working with the travel trade over many years at VisitBritain.”
The US continues to lead tourism’s recovery in the UK with record-breaking spend by American visitors based on the latest year-to-date figures for January to September 2023.
It is up 28% on 2019 even when adjusted for inflation.
Walsh said: “The US has consistently been a leading market to Britain, and we are committed to continuing to harness the valuable opportunities for growth.”
VisitBritain is expecting the US market to be worth £6.3 billion in 2024 with American visitors contributing almost £1 in every £5 of all inbound tourism spending.
It is forecasting 5.3 million visits from the US this year, up 17% on 2019.
Tags:Paul Gauger VisitBritain, US
