North East leader takes national tourism role

A North East tourism leader is set to help steer the UK’s visitor sector.

Dr Sarah Green has been appointed to the VisitEngland board for a five-year term from September 2025. 

Sarah, chief executive of NewcastleGateshead Initiative since 2020, has championed the region as a destination for visitors and investment. 

Under her leadership, NGI secured England’s first Local Visitor Economy Partnership accreditation in 2022 and a £2.8 million Government-backed Destination Development Partnership pilot.

Sarah has also served on the Government’s Visitor Economy Advisory Council and chairs the Visitor Economy Regional Growth Taskforce, advocating for the sector’s role in creating jobs, skills, investment and regeneration across the UK. 

She said: “Our visitor economy has impact. 

“It has the power to unlock opportunity, drive social mobility and enrich experiences and local communities. 

“Nationally it’s worth £106 billion and supports 2.6 million jobs, but aside from the quantitative data, it’s the influence our visitor economy has in shaping international perceptions of the UK – embodying our unique heritage – that truly tells the full story.

“Whether it’s our national parks and green spaces, awe-inspiring World Heritage sites, or small indie music venues and innovative foodie spots, they all tell a story of our history and our culture which we have the privilege to share with the world.”

As a VisitEngland board member, Sarah will help shape national strategy, ensuring regions outside London have a voice and supporting the growth, sustainability and global reputation of the UK’s £106 billion visitor economy.

Her appointment comes alongside Helen Bonser-Wilton, chief executive of Leeds Castle Foundation.

Sarah added: “To be part of VisitEngland’s board is an incredible opportunity to work alongside industry leaders and forward-thinkers to support the growth, competitiveness, and reputation our visitor economy. 

“I am committed to giving regions and nations outside of London a voice and supporting the UK’s visitor economy to be resilient, sustainable and world-class.

“I look forward to playing my part.”

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