New Tourism Alliance executive director joins at ‘pivotal time’

The Tourism Alliance has appointed Eddy Leviten as its new executive director, effective from September 15.

 

The umbrella organisation for the UK’s tourism and hospitality industry said he will lead the alliance’s policy, advocacy and membership agenda at a “pivotal time” for the UK visitor economy, working closely with government, national agencies and the Tourism Alliance’s broad coalition of industry bodies and businesses.

 

He has 25 years of experience working across creative industries, intellectual property, and due diligence and investigations, in both trade organisations and commercial businesses.

 

Leviten headed the Alliance for Intellectual Property from 2014-2019, promoting IP and supporting members across IP-rich sectors to ensure that policy and enforcement was effective.

 

This involved advocating for policy changes and lobbying government in the UK; post-Brexit this meant ensuring that IP was high on the trade agenda.

 

He is also an experienced media spokesperson and commentator.

 

Emma McClarkin, chair of the Tourism Alliance and chief executive of the Bitish Beer & Pub Association, said: “Eddy is a proven coalition-builder with the energy and strategic clarity the sector needs right now.

 

“His experience engaging across Whitehall, devolved administrations and industry will be invaluable as we champion a competitive, sustainable and world-class UK visitor economy.”

 

Tom Jenkins, past chair and current board member, and chief executive of the European tourism association, added: “The Tourism Alliance exists to unify the sector’s voice. Eddy understands the diversity of our members – from attractions and hospitality to transport and destination management – and how to convert that insight into practical policy wins.”

 

Leviten commented: “Tourism is a national success story – driving jobs, investment and cultural exchange in every region of the UK. I’m excited to join the Tourism Alliance and will focus on three priorities from day one: amplifying a clear, data-driven policy voice; delivering tangible value for members; and deepening collaboration across the whole visitor economy.”