Tuesday, May 27, 2025
The Anguilla government has underscored its commitment to empowering local talent in the tourism sector with the recent appointment of Mr. Jameel Rochester as the new Director of Tourism at the Anguilla Tourist Board (ATB). Announced by The Honourable Cardigan Connor, Minister of Health, Sport, and Tourism, this leadership change highlights a strategic focus on leveraging homegrown expertise to navigate an increasingly dynamic global tourism market.
Ministerial Commitment to Local Leadership
Minister Connor reaffirmed the government’s dedication to placing Anguillians in key leadership positions across the island’s tourism sector. In tandem with Rochester’s appointment, Mrs. Amelia Vanterpool-Kubisch was named Chairperson of the ATB, and Mrs. Chantelle Richardson appointed as Deputy Director, ensuring a robust, locally rooted leadership team.
According to official statements from the Government of Anguilla and the Ministry of Tourism, this team is expected to spearhead initiatives aimed at sustainable tourism development, destination marketing, and economic resilience amid shifting consumer behaviors and technological advancements.
Professional and Private Sector Experience
Mr. Rochester brings a diverse and comprehensive background, merging private sector acumen with prior public sector tourism leadership. Before his return to Anguilla, he served as Assistant Rooms Division Manager at Wymara Resort and Villas in the Turks and Caicos Islands, gaining invaluable experience in luxury hospitality operations and guest service excellence.
His earlier tenure as General Secretary (CEO) of the Anguilla Football Association reflects his capabilities in organizational leadership and stakeholder engagement beyond tourism, demonstrating versatility in management.
Within Anguilla’s hospitality industry, Rochester has held senior roles with world-renowned brands including Zemi Beach House, Four Seasons Resort and Residences, and Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, where he honed operational skills and developed a strong network within the Caribbean luxury travel segment.
Additionally, Rochester’s work in the financial sector at National Bank of Anguilla Ltd and CIBC First Caribbean International Bank further contributes to his financial and strategic management expertise, critical for overseeing the operational and fiscal responsibilities of the Anguilla Tourist Board.
Prior Experience with the Anguilla Tourist Board
This appointment marks Rochester’s return to the Anguilla Tourist Board, where he previously served in multiple leadership capacities, most notably as Manager. His prior knowledge of the organization’s structure, goals, and challenges positions him uniquely to drive forward initiatives with continuity and innovation.
Academic Excellence
Rochester’s academic credentials are impressive and relevant, enhancing his qualifications to lead the island’s tourism sector:
- Master of Science in International Hospitality Management from Les Roches University, a globally recognized hospitality management school.
- Master of Science in General Management Studies with distinction.
- Bachelor of Science in General Management Studies from the University of the West Indies.
- Certificate in Hospitality and Tourism Management.
These qualifications underscore his ability to blend theoretical knowledge with practical applications, critical for steering a competitive destination brand in today’s marketplace.
Government Perspective on Rochester’s Appointment
Minister Cardigan Connor emphasized the strategic value Rochester’s profile brings to the role, stating:
“Jameel’s academic achievements, combined with his extensive professional experience, have equipped him with the skills and insight necessary to lead complex operations, ensure sound financial management, and drive strategic success in Anguilla’s tourism industry. We are pleased that he resigned his position in the Turks & Caicos to return home to lead the Anguilla Tourist Board.”
This statement reflects the government’s confidence in Rochester’s leadership as pivotal for advancing the sector’s recovery and sustainable growth post-pandemic.
Chairperson’s Vision for Tourism Leadership
Mrs. Amelia Vanterpool-Kubisch, Chairperson of the Anguilla Tourist Board, highlighted the necessity of a leadership shift towards a new generation attuned to the evolving dynamics of the global tourism marketplace. She noted:
“As our tourism industry rapidly evolves in response to digital innovation and shifting consumer behavior, a new generation of leaders must take the helm. Their fluency with emerging communication tools and selling platforms positions them to drive engagement, enhance customer experiences, and keep the industry competitive in a global market.”
Vanterpool-Kubisch further emphasized that empowering local talent like Rochester is not only advantageous but critical to sustaining tourism’s relevance and growth in the modern age.
Strategic Priorities Under New Leadership
Under Rochester’s direction, the Anguilla Tourist Board is expected to focus on:
- Digital Transformation: Leveraging technology to enhance destination marketing, consumer engagement, and data-driven decision-making.
- Sustainable Tourism Development: Balancing economic growth with environmental preservation and community well-being.
- Product Diversification: Expanding Anguilla’s appeal beyond traditional sun-and-sand tourism by promoting cultural, culinary, and eco-tourism experiences.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: Engaging public and private sectors, including hospitality partners, government agencies, and community groups, to foster unified tourism development.
- Crisis Management and Resilience: Building capacity to respond to global challenges such as health crises and climate change impacts.
Context: Anguilla’s Tourism Sector in 2025
Tourism remains the backbone of Anguilla’s economy, contributing significantly to employment, GDP, and foreign exchange earnings. According to the Anguilla Statistics Department and Ministry of Tourism reports, visitor arrivals have shown promising recovery post-COVID-19, with increased interest from North American and European markets.
As competition in the Caribbean intensifies, the appointment of a skilled local leader like Rochester is seen as an essential step to ensure Anguilla’s distinct brand and quality offerings remain competitive and appealing to discerning travelers.
Rochester’s Vision for Anguilla Tourism
Upon assuming office on May 15, 2025, Rochester expressed enthusiasm and a forward-looking vision:
“I am honored to return home and lead the Anguilla Tourist Board at this pivotal moment. My goal is to build on the island’s strengths while embracing innovation and sustainability to position Anguilla as a premier Caribbean destination that benefits all stakeholders—residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”
His leadership aims to harness data analytics, strengthen partnerships, and invest in workforce development, thereby enhancing both visitor satisfaction and community prosperity.
Conclusion
The appointment of Mr. Jameel Rochester as Director of Tourism symbolizes Anguilla’s commitment to local empowerment, strategic growth, and resilience in a rapidly evolving tourism landscape. Supported by a strong leadership team including Chairperson Amelia Vanterpool-Kubisch and Deputy Director Chantelle Richardson, the Anguilla Tourist Board is poised to navigate the complexities of modern tourism with agility and vision.
As tourism continues to play a vital role in Anguilla’s socio-economic fabric, this leadership transition signals renewed optimism for the sector’s future success.
References
- Government of Anguilla Official Website
- Anguilla Tourist Board
- Ministry of Health, Sport, and Tourism, Anguilla
- University of the West Indies
- Les Roches Global Hospitality Education
