STA CEO acknowledges outgoing SPTO Chairman

Photo: STA CEO Faamatuainu Lenatai Suifua and Cook Islands Tourism CEO Halatoa Fua

Following the announcement of the resignation of Halatoa Fua, Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) Board Chairman, Samoa Tourism Authority CEO Faamatuainu Lenatai Suifua has acknowledged the stewardship of the outgoing Chairperson of the regional organisation. 

Faamatuainu, who also sits on the SPTO Board, paid tribute to his regional colleague and recognised his valuable contributions to the advancement of the sustainable tourism agenda at the regional level, especially during a time of unprecedented uncertainty caused by the Covid-19 Pandemic.

Fua’s resignation follows his decision to step down as the CEO of Cook Islands Tourism a role he’s held for 10-years. He will complete his tenure there in January 2022.

‘I wish to personally thank Halatoa for his leadership and immense contribution to the work of the Board and also congratulate him in his new appointment as the Director of the Cook Islands National Environment Service’, said Faamatuainu.

The STA CEO was appointed Deputy Chairperson of SPTO at the organisation’s October Board Meeting, replacing the late Josefa Tuamotu of Solomon Islands who passed away unexpectedly.

With Fua’s departure, Faamatuainu’s role on the Board has been elevated to that of Chairman, until May 2022 when the (SPTO) Board of Directors Meeting is scheduled to convene.

Faamatuainu added, ‘I am honoured to take on the role of Chairman and I look forward to working closely with the CEO and Directors to ensure a smooth transition and continuity in terms of governance and strategy’.