The Grenada Hotel and Tourism Association is proud to announce and welcome on board Ms. Arlene Friday as its new Chief Executive Officer on December 16th, 2019.
“I am truly looking forward to being a part of this dynamic and established association,” Ms. Friday said. “I am excited to become a contributor to its continued growth and success.”
Ms. Friday holds an MBA in International Business and brings over 10 years of management, advocacy and marketing experience across various industries internationally. Originally from New York with Grenadian roots, Arlene relocated to Grenada where she has since led marketing and the coordination of the Pure Grenada Music Festival. She has also worked in Grenada as a marketing and business consultant and project manager for several companies. Previously in NY, she successfully spearheaded a grant funded project garnering state-wide recognition.
As the CEO, Ms. Friday will be responsible for the overall strategic and operational management, driving revenue and membership as well as marketing and PR. She will work closely with the GHTA Board of Directors to manage and develop relationships within the hotel and tourism sector both locally and abroad. Jerry Rappaport, President of the GHTA commented “We are very glad that Arlene has joined our organization as Executive Director. We are looking forward to working together with her to advance tourism here in Pure Grenada for many years to come.”
Arlene is replacing Ms. Pancy Cross, who retired on Dec. 13, 2019, after leading the GHTA over the past 15 years. During her tenure as CEO, Ms. Cross has guided the association through both positive and challenging times. She was instrumental in keeping members informed after both hurricane Ivan and Emily and helped to implement the CARICOM Energy Saving Program, the creation of the Pure Grenada brand and most importantly the implementation of the Tourism Enhancement Fund.
Ms. Cross was a tireless proponent for tourism and its benefits to Grenada. She also was a big believer in developing local staff and to that end coordinated numerous training sessions. In addition, she also represented the GHTA at countless meetings and consultations with government and international entities. According to Jerry Rappaport, President of GHTA, “Pancy has been an invaluable member of the GHTA team and we will miss her presence in the office. Her role in helping to develop tourism in Grenada over the past 15 years cannot be denied and the GHTA will forever be thankful for her efforts. We wish her the best in her retirement.”
