THE GROUP TASKED with the job of promoting tourism in Moray and Speyside has come under new leadership.
Moray Chamber of Commerce has revealed that Laurie Piper, whose CV included a period in the team behind Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, has been appointed as the new Operations Manager for Moray Speyside Tourism.
Moray Speyside Tourism operates under the auspices of Moray Chamber of Commerce, which in turn is a member of the Moray Economic Partnership. Its role is to help communities and businesses in Moray Speyside work together to create unforgettable experiences for visitors.
Mr Piper will take on his new duties from the middle of June, joining Esme Saville, Moray/Speyside Tourism’s Marketing and Digital Manager, in delivering the tourism strategy for the region.
Speaking of his appointment, Laurie said: “I have worked in tourism, culture and the arts since I was 18 and am deeply committed to developing, improving and strengthening the sector. I have had the honour of working on some of Scotland’s highest profile events over the years, including Edinburgh’s Hogmanay and the Fort William Mountain Bike World Championships.
“I have called Moray my home for some years now and I am honoured to be joining Moray Speyside at such an important time. I am very much looking forward to helping to deliver the Tourism Strategy for this most incredible part of Scotland and can’t wait to get started”
Tourism in Moray Speyside contributes to over 10% of employment in the area and has an economic impact of over £105 million.
By 2025 Moray Speyside intends to double the economic value of tourism and double the size of the tourism-related workforce, with at least 80% living locally and fully skilled for their job, and trained in customer care.
The vision is that in 2025, Moray will be known nationally and internationally as an exceptionally attractive destination for leisure and business visitors, offering memorable experiences, based on the area’s unique assets, including malt whisky, the heritage of Macbeth, its pure natural environment and superb food using local produce.