When your next CEO is right under your nose

Tourism Tasmania launched a nationwide search for a new CEO but found the person they were looking for right under their noses. 

As is so often the case in Tasmania, the "right person for the job" was already known to the organisation as they sought a replacement for John Fitzgerald, who is leaving after a decade in the role. 

Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff announced today that Sarah Clark has been appointed to the role "after an extensive national recruitment process and a very strong field of candidates".

They could have saved their money. 

Clark had been on Tourism Tasmania’s board since September 2021 and will transition from a non-executive director to the CEO’s role as executive director on the board.

Tasmanian born and raised, she joins Tourism Tasmania from Intrepid Travel, the world’s largest adventure travel company. 

Her current role at the organisation is Managing Director ANZ and member of the global core management team. 

“As a proud Tasmanian, I am honoured to take on the role and provide leadership to realise Tasmania’s vision and plan of being a global leader in sustainable tourism," Clark said.

"We are a destination on the top of many Australians' travel lists, with international travellers quickly catching on. 

"People are looking for enriching and meaningful travel experiences and Tasmania is unlike anywhere in the world. We are beautifully positioned to thrive as travel recovers with our world-class gastronomy, natural environment, arts, and unique culture.

"I look forward to leading the incredible and very capable team at Tourism Tasmania and working with the wider tourism industry to drive positive social, cultural and economic impact to Tasmanians through a strong and sustainable visitor economy.” 

Tourism Tasmania extended its thanks to Fitzgerald for his "contribution and leadership over the last 10 years. During his tenure, he has overseen both a period of significant industry growth as well as the unprecedented challenge and impact of COVID-19."

Clark will commence her new role in early 2023.