“VINAKA vakalevu,” said outgoing Tourism Fiji chief executive officer Brent Hill as he counts down to vacating the office from where he helped orchestrate Fiji tourism’s survival and rapid recovery after COVID-19 and the metamorphosis of Destination Fiji from the tired “sun, sand and sea” into one of cultural experience for the tourist in search of something different.
“It has been an honour and privilege to serve Fiji through my role as CEO of Tourism Fiji,” Mr Hill said in an interview with The Fiji Times.
“I want to thank sincerely the people of Fiji for embracing my family and I. We have loved every minute, and take with us deep and lasting friendships and memories, and contentment that the work was done well and has advanced Fiji forward.
“I feel proud of my role in that success, and of the team both now and who have gone before. We take with us some truly special moments, and a forever connection to Fiji through our sons who we had while in Fiji.
“The tourism industry in Fiji is strong, passionate, driven and truly remarkable. I salute and thank them, and will watch their continued success.”
Mr Hill’s shock resignation announcement early this month came just two months after the renewal of his top job contract and within days of the resignation of Fiji Airways chief executive officer Andre Viljoen – another key industry executive instrumental in resurrecting the national airline from significant losses made during COVID into a world class award-winning entity that punched above its weight.
“Mr Hill believed that the time was right to hand over to a successor after four successful years in the role as CEO at Tourism Fiji,” a Tourism Fiji spokesperson said.
“He is returning to Australia with his family and is excited to welcome another baby son later this month, before starting in his next role.
“Tourism Fiji as an organisation goes on, and the work continues. Brent has always been very clear that the Corporate Plans that he put in place would outlive his role specifically, as tourism is about the industry and the collective push to bring tourists to Fiji from around the world.
Undeniable impact; For an industry that has been the primary driver of Fiji’s economy, losing key players is akin to the end of an era.
“Andre Villojen and Brent Hill have revolutionized Fiji’s tourism landscape with passion, visionary leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” Fiji Hotels and Tourism Association chief executive officer Fantasha Lockington said.
“Andre has propelled Fiji Airways to global acclaim, transforming it from a small Pacific Island airline into an iconic powerhouse that holds its own against the biggest names in aviation, while garnering global acclaim for a number of airline awards.
“While Brent has masterfully positioned Destination Fiji as a must-visit gem, capturing the imagination of travelers worldwide and securing its spot on ultimate Bucket Lists.
“Their impact is undeniable, their legacy inspiring.
“Tourism consistently navigates the challenges of welcoming, and eventually farewelling visionary leaders, and we will miss Andre and Brent sincerely. We wish them both well in their future endeavours and look forward to building on, and continuing the industry’s collective commitment to sustainability developing the industry further.
“We must, because Fiji’s economic success is still tied inexorably to tourism’s success.
“The challenges for attracting skilled workers and high impact leaders continue, as does our commitment to address these,” Ms Lockington said.
Mr Hill will leave Fiji in August while Mr Viljoen will leave in October.
Note: This article was first published on the print version of the Fiji Times dated June 14, 2025
