Tourism New Zealand has appointed Samuel Russell to lead the development of the global premium travel market, based in Auckland.

General Manager of Marketing Communications Justin Watson says this newly created position is tasked with increasing visitor arrivals to New Zealand from the lucrative global premium travel sector.

The appointment follows the Government’s 2013/14 Budget announcement of an additional $123 million in funding for Tourism New Zealand over four years, with $20 million over four years specifically earmarked for the purpose of growing the premium sector.

“Sam brings over 20 years of experience working in the luxury goods, travel, hospitality, banking and medical sectors. He is a Kiwi who has spent the majority of his career in the USA working for various companies, including over 10 years as Marketing and Communications Director for Davidoff, the Swiss luxury brands company based in New York; and three years as the Marketing Director for the New York Health & Racquet Club. “

“Sam’s significant background, industry contacts and extensive experience make him ideally placed to help Tourism New Zealand attract more of this critical sector of travellers.”

Samuel begins with with Tourism New Zealand on the 9th of September.

Tourism New Zealand has also filled another important new position, appointing Stephen Marshall to the new role of Premium Sector Trade Manager – Americas. Stephen is currently General Manager of AOT New Zealand in Auckland and will relocate with his family to Los Angeles in late September.

Interviews are currently underway with candidates for two further positions within the Premium Travel team; Premium Sector Trade Manager – UK, who will be based in London; and Premium Sector Trade Manager – Asia, who will be based in Shanghai.