Industry stalwart recognised with top tourism award

Industry stalwart recognised with top tourism award

A man who has consistently demonstrated leadership in New Zealand’s $23.4 billion tourism industry has been recognised for his significant contribution over more than 40 years.

Air New Zealand Deputy Chief Executive Norm Thompson has been presented with the Crowe Horwath International Sir Jack Newman Award for his outstanding contribution to New Zealand’s tourism industry.

The award is one of two Tourism Industry Awards presented at the Wellington Airport Summit Dinner following the 2013 TIA Summit in Wellington yesterday. The awards are managed by the Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIA).

Mr Thompson joined Air New Zealand in 1968. He rose through the ranks to become Deputy Chief Executive Officer in 2007 and is currently also Acting Chief Sales Officer.

Some of the key roles Mr Thompson held at Air New Zealand prior to be being appointed to his current role include Group General Manager Short Haul Airlines (with accountability for domestic, Tasman and Pacific operations), Group General Manager Marketing, Network and Sales, Regional General Manager The Americas and Regional General Manager New Zealand and Pacific Islands.

He joined the board of TIA in in 2003, representing the Air Transport Sector. He has been chairman since 2006, retiring from the board at this year’s elections.

Mr Thompson has taken a lead on environmental issues, chairing the Air New Zealand Environment Trust, which is committed to supporting projects that enhance New Zealand's clean, green reputation around the world.

Awards judge Stephen Hamilton, Director of Horwath HTL, a member of Crowe Horwath International, says Mr Thompson has been a passionate advocate for the interests of New Zealand and its tourism industry over many years.

“His career has been dedicated to growing tourism and its contribution to New Zealand. We wish him all the best in his impending retirement but I’m sure he will continue to take an active interest in tourism and its progress,” Mr Hamilton says.

For more information about the Tourism Industry Awards, go to http://tourismawards.co.nz/

ENDS

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