Latest News

The Islands’ Partnership, the non-profit-making Destination Management Organisation and business lead for the Isles of Scilly, has appointed James Berresford as its new independent non-Executive Chairman.

The former VisitEngland Chief Executive will take the role for an initial three year term and will work alongside the Islands’ Partnership Board and Executive team in driving forward the continued growth of Scilly’s tourism industry and the wider economic prosperity of the islands.

James brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Islands’ Partnership having with a long and successful career in tourism, most notably the last six years as Chief Executive of the National Tourist Board, VisitEngland. Prior to that, he was Director of Tourism for eight years at the North West Development Agency. His experience extends from leading the development and delivery of the first ever national tourism strategy for England and the establishment of a new national tourism body, to delivering major cultural programmes and multi-million business development and marketing initiatives.

“I am delighted to be given this opportunity to join the Islands’ Partnership Board as non-Executive Chair,” says James. “The Isles of Scilly is a unique and truly distinctive destination. I’m looking forward to sharing my experience and enthusiasm to help steer the continued development of a sustainable visitor economy and to support island businesses to grow and prosper. In the last three years, the Islands’ Partnership has done a terrific job in turning around the tourism economy and driving up visitor numbers after years of decline, but tourism is a fast-paced, ever-changing industry. I’m committed to ensuring the Partnership and the islands rise to these challenges.”

“We are extremely pleased to welcome James to the Islands’ Partnership Board of Directors,” says Robert Francis, Islands’ Partnership Vice Chair. “Indeed we are honoured that so soon after stepping down as VisitEngland’s Chief Executive, he has decided to impart to us here on Scilly his immense passion for and expertise in tourism. I am sure his strong, impartial leadership will be invaluable in enabling us to build a confident and secure long-term future for Scilly’s visitor economy.”

Mark Duddridge, Chair of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership added: “This is fantastic news for the Islands’ Partnership and for Scilly at what is a really exciting time for the region. I look forward to working with James and the Islands’ Partnership over the next three years to help support business and grow the islands’ economy.”