BRIDGETOWN — The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has a new Chairman at its helm.

Following an election on Sept. 3 at the CTO’s Annual General Meeting, Ian Gooding-Edghill, Minister of Tourism and International Transport for Barbados, has been elected as the organization’s new Chairman.

In his new role, Gooding-Edghill will lead the CTO’s Council of Ministers and Commissioners of Tourism for the next two years, guiding the organization’s efforts to enhance and promote tourism across the region. 

“It is a great honour for Barbados to be chosen to represent the region at this level,” said Gooding-Edghill. “I am deeply committed to working with my colleagues across the Caribbean to strengthen our tourism sector, drive sustainable growth, and navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Together, we will continue to position the Caribbean as the world’s leading tourist destination.”

Gooding-Edghill takes over the reins from outgoing Chairman Kenneth Bryan, Minister of Tourism for the Cayman Islands. 

In addition to his appointment, CEO of the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., Andrea Franklin, assumes the role of Chair of the Board of Directors of the CTO. 

Both appointments take immediate effect.