Annunziata named president of tourism agency
The Tourism Partnership of Niagara has appointed industry veteran Anthony Annunziata as its president, following a nation-wide executive leadership search.
Annunziata, who has served as interim executive director of the not-for-profit organization since February, moves into the new role effective immediately.
“We received interest from many talented and capable tourism executives across the country, but Anthony gained our board’s confidence because of his incredible passion for growing tourism in Niagara and his understanding of what makes Niagara such a unique destination,” said Noel Buckley, chairman of the Tourism Partnership of Niagara board of directors and president and general manager of the Scotiabank Convention Centre in Niagara Falls.
“Anthony has proven to us over the past 10 months that he has the experience, expertise and vision needed to continue to build on Niagara’s reputation as one of the world’s top tourism destinations and take our brand to an even higher level,” added Janice Thomson, a member of the organization’s board and president of Tourism Niagara-on-the-Lake.
A lifelong resident of Niagara, Annunziata has more than 20 years experience in the tourism industry, serving in numerous senior leadership roles in marketing.
Prior to joining the Tourism Partnership of Niagara, he served as vice president of marketing for Canadian Niagara Hotels, vice president of marketing for Hilton Hotel and Suites in Niagara Falls, and executive director of marketing for Niagara Falls Casino Resort and Casino Niagara for nine years.
Annunziata also headed the Buffalo and Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority as its chairman for 10 years.
Annunziata has spearheaded an ongoing push by the Tourism Partnership of Niagara to share authentic Niagara experiences with travellers and potential visitors through paid and earned media initiatives, highlighted by this past summer’s My Niagara campaign.
“Millions of people are drawn to Niagara every year to see the falls — which is a remarkable natural attraction — but the Niagara narrative and the attributes that define Niagara create experiences that visitors can share with friends and family and take those memories and experiences back home,” said Annunziata.
“Niagara is one of the world’s truly unique destinations because of its incredible range of offerings, such as wineries, authentic dining experiences, live theatre, nightlife, shopping and fascinating heritage that define our communities.”
Annunziata said he and his team are gearing up for an exciting winter season packed with new marketing initiatives, activities and events.
The Tourism Partnership of Niagara is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport.
It is one of 13 regional tourism organizations in the province.