Tributes to industry veteran Richard Tobias
The industry has expressed its sadness after industry veteran Richard Tobias died last week following a short illness.
Tobias, who had been chairman of the Best Loved Group for the past 10 years, died on Thursday January 8, aged 69.
He had previously been director-general of the Tourism Alliance from 2004 to 2006 and chief executive of the BITOA, now UKInbound, from 1994 to 2004.
He was awarded an OBE in 1998 for services to the travel industry.
UKInbound CEO, Deirdre Wells said: "We are extremely sad to hear the news of Richard’s passing. Richard’s dedication and passion for the tourism industry was to be truly admired.
"His vision was instrumental in growing UKinbound, formerly BITOA, into the Association we have today. He brought so much to the industry, our association and our members alike and he will be sorely missed by all. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family at this difficult time."
Kurt Janson, policy director at the Tourism Alliance, said: "Richard was stalwart of the UK tourism industry, ceaseless in advocating the benefits that it provides and championing the views of tourism businesses with Government.
"In being one of the founders of the tourism Alliance he was instrumental in galvanising the industry and providing much needed leadership and focus. That the Government now recognises tourism as being one of the UK’s main growth industries is a legacy to his work."
Former colleagues and friends posted messages on Facebook in tribute to him.
Hoda Lacey, of Hoda Lacey Consulting, said: "I am so very, very sad. Richard Tobias has passed on peacefully. May you be in a better place , Richard. I am so desperately sorry you have gone."
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