Tourism Fiji has officially welcomed its new leadership team, with Ilisapeci Matatolu appointed as chairperson of the board and Dr Paresh Pant as chief executive officer.
The announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka during a press conference yesterday, where he said the appointments marked a new era of growth and innovation for Fiji’s tourism industry.
Mr Gavoka expressed confidence that the new leadership would bring renewed energy and strategic direction to Tourism Fiji, commending the board for its transparent recruitment process and continued commitment to the sector.
“I want to acknowledge the leadership that has guided the organisation through this important period of transition,” he said.
“I extend my sincere thanks to Madam Elizabeth Matatolu and the entire Tourism Fiji board for their outstanding work.”
He described Ms Matatolu as a seasoned professional with deep experience in the tourism sector, having served over a decade with Tourism Fiji, formerly Fiji’s business bureau and represented the country in key markets across Australia and North America.
“She is no stranger to the work and drive of tourism success, having spent years on the ground promoting Fiji’s story and fostering long-term industry connections.
“A proud i-Taukei pro-academic, she has contributed significantly to tourism education and research, focusing on indigenous women, entrepreneurship, and gender equality in tourism.”
Mr Gavoka also highlighted the appointment of Dr Pant as Tourism Fiji’s new CEO, describing it as the start of a new chapter for the organisation and the wider industry.
“Dr Pant brings over 25 years of leadership across tourism, aviation and hospitality.
“He understands Fiji, its markets, its operators, and most importantly, its people. His deep connection to our nation, coupled with his international expertise, positions him perfectly to lead Tourism Fiji.”
In his first public remarks as CEO, Dr Pant outlined his vision for inclusive tourism growth that reaches beyond the traditional tourism belt.
“Apart from growing the market and spreading the benefits of tourism, we want to extend opportunities to places like the Yasawas, Savusavu, and even the Lau group and Kadavu,” Dr Pant said.
“But in addition to that, growing our local human capital, that’s important for me.”
