Tony Watson joins North Yorkshire Council as Head of Tourism at the end of March 2025 to head up the Visit North Yorkshire team. Here’s a welcome from Tony:
I spent five years as Director of Sales, Marketing and PR at First Direct Arena in Leeds, and York Barbican, where I was proud to help deliver over 300 world-class events, welcoming more than two million visitors. More recently, I spent eight years in senior roles at the Lake District National Park, leading on communications, marketing, and commercial operations. I also oversaw businesses that welcome millions of visitors annually, gaining first-hand insight into the pressures facing tourism businesses—from rising costs and changing markets to an increasingly complex macroeconomic environment. I understand the need for strong advocacy, innovation, and collaboration to help businesses thrive.
Beyond work, my connection to North Yorkshire runs deep. As a fundraiser for the RNLI, I’ve spent a lot of time on the North Yorkshire coast, experiencing the dedication of our communities and the unique appeal that draws visitors here.
I’m also incredibly excited to work with the Visit North Yorkshire team who I’ve already found to be a group of passionate professionals dedicated to showcasing this special part of the world. Their commitment to driving tourism forward and celebrating everything that makes North Yorkshire unique is inspiring.
I’ll be attending upcoming industry events, so if you see me, please say hello! I’d love to hear your ideas and explore how my team and your business can work together. Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn, and let’s continue to make Visit North Yorkshire a powerful platform for your success. I can’t wait to get started!
