Hotelier Josephine Moffat has been elected president of the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (FHTA) – becoming the first woman to hold this role.
FHTA chief executive officer Fantasha Lockington said Ms Moffat’s election was a historic and deeply meaningful moment for the association.
“Josephine’s election as FHTA’s first female president is a milestone for the association and for Fiji tourism,” Ms Lockington said. “It recognises the women who have long carried so much of this industry’s strength, professionalism and warmth, from frontline service to executive leadership, and it sends a clear message that tourism leadership must continue to reflect the people who make the industry what it is.”
She said Ms Moffat’s leadership also brought together heritage and fresh direction at a critical time for the sector. “There is something very special about seeing Josephine take up this role in her own right, while also acknowledging the contribution of her father, Richard ‘Dick’ Smith, whose work through Musket Cove and FHTA remains part of Fiji tourism’s story.
“But this is not simply about legacy. Josephine brings her own experience, judgement and commitment to sustainable tourism, and that is exactly the kind of leadership the industry needs as we look ahead.”
In a statement, Ms Moffat said to be elected the first female president in the association’s history was a milestone that belonged to the countless women who had been the quiet backbone of the country’s hospitality sector for decades.
“From the front offices to the executive boards, women have always helped steer the course of our industry,” she said.
“I am proud to represent that legacy, and I hope this moment serves as an open door for the next generation of female leaders in tourism.” Ms Moffat said her vision of FHTA would be guided by inclusive growth, sustainable innovation and stronger collaboration across the industry. “As we look ahead, my vision for FHTA is one of inclusive growth and sustainable innovation.
“We must continue to elevate our standards while ensuring the benefits of tourism enrich our local communities and protect our fragile ecosystems. I and the board look forward to advocating fiercely for our members and working hand-in-hand with Government and our partners to ensure our industry is always at the table.”
Ms Moffat was elected at the FHTA’s 61st annual general meeting held at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort on Denarau last week.
Lee Pearce of Raffe Hotels & Resorts and Narend Kumar of Tanoa Group of Hotels were elected vice presidents. The AGM also confirmed the newly elected board members: Adam Wade of Vuda Marina Fiji, Adriu Tupou of Grand Pacific Hotel under the Fiji National Provident Fund, Allan Gortan of Paradise Taveuni, Lachlan Walker of InterContinental Hotels Group, Silvano Dressino of Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, Tammie Tam of Warwick Hotels & Resorts, and Lee Pearce.
