Chief Tourism Officer

Role OverviewThe Chief Tourism Officer (CTO) will spearhead the organization’s tourism and destination management strategy, leading initiatives across domestic and international verticals including leisure, business, and faith-based travel. This executive will be responsible for developing innovative tourism experiences, managing strategic partnerships with government and private stakeholders, expanding the business portfolio, and driving revenue growth across B2B and B2C channels.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic LeadershipDevelop and execute the overall tourism and destination management strategy aligned with national goals and the company’s strategic vision.Lead the growth of inbound tourism offerings and partnerships with global travel partners.Oversee faith-based and leisure travel operations, ensuring operational excellence and innovative service delivery.Manage full P&L ownership, ensuring profitability, operational efficiency, and scalability.Government & Stakeholder EngagementBuild and sustain high-level relationships with government bodies, ministries, and tourism authorities.Drive public-private partnerships (PPP) and cross-border collaborations to enhance tourism visibility and accessibility.Represent the organization at key tourism events, forums, and investment discussions.Business Expansion & OperationsLead multi-channel expansion initiatives across B2B, B2C, and corporate travel segments.Identify and capitalize on new market opportunities, strategic alliances, and business models.Oversee the execution of large-scale tourism projects ensuring compliance with national tourism regulations.Drive digital transformation within the tourism vertical, aligning with the organization’s tech-driven ecosystem.Team LeadershipLead and mentor a team of business heads, vertical leads, and regional directors.Foster a high-performance culture focused on innovation, accountability, and collaboration.Ensure alignment between operational teams, strategic partners, and executive management.Qualifications & Experience15+ years of progressive leadership experience in travel, tourism, destination management, or hospitality.Proven track record in P&L management, strategic business expansion, and government liaison.Strong experience in B2B and B2C travel models, including DMCs, online travel agencies (OTAs), or integrated travel brands.Prior exposure to Saudi Arabia or GCC tourism ecosystem preferred.Exceptional stakeholder management, negotiation, and communication skills.Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Tourism Management, or a related field.Key CompetenciesStrategic & Commercial AcumenGovernment & Institutional RelationsBusiness Transformation LeadershipStakeholder & Partner ManagementFinancial Planning & P&L OwnershipDigital & Technology-Driven MindsetTeam Development & Leadership Excellence