The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) has hailed Donnie Dawson, deputy director of tourism, who will be retiring on March 31. Dawson’s retirement comes after delivering 40 years of solid contribution to the tourism industry.

“It is with warm wishes and deepest gratitude for his many years of dedicated service to the organisation, that the Jamaica Tourist Board will be bidding farewell to its Deputy Director of Tourism, Americas, Donnie Dawson,” the JTB said in a release earlier today (March 23).

“Jamaica is deeply indebted to Donnie Dawson for his decades of service to develop and promote tourism to the island,” said Edmund Bartlett, minister of tourism.

“He has been a steadfast ambassador throughout the years, dedicated to helping Jamaica become one of the world’s leading tourism destinations. We are truly grateful to him for everything he has accomplished and wish him a very happy retirement.”

Dawson joined the Jamaica Tourist Board at its Kingston Headquarters as a Sales Representative in 1975.  After a brief employment with Jamaica Resort Hotels, he rejoined the Tourist Board in California in 1982 and was tasked with expanding what was then a satellite office into a full-service regional operation covering thirteen States.

In 2003, Dawson was appointed Deputy Director of Tourism for the Jamaica Tourist Board with location in the Board’s Miami office, further serving two times as interim Director of Tourism.

“We are truly saddened to see Donnie go, as he has been a respected colleague and an invaluable leader to the Jamaica Tourist Board over the many years, he has worked with us and whose passion and drive helped make our tourist industry what it is today,” said Donovan White, director of Tourism.

“However, we wish him only the best as he leaves his storied career to pursue life beyond it and we will absolutely remain in touch. Donnie will indeed be missed!”

A stalwart in the industry

A face well known and respected by tourism professionals in the Caribbean and globally, Dawson earned himself the nickname of “Mr. Airlift” among colleagues due to his ongoing work with airlines to provide service to Jamaica.

He is also credited with helping to develop the destination’s strong relationship with travel professionals and the Jamaica Travel Specialist programme to educate agents about the island’s tourism product offerings.

“I am so proud of all Jamaica has accomplished throughout the years, having grown from having only charter flights and no all-inclusives to become one of the top tourism destinations globally,” said Dawson.

“It’s amazing to me and, while I have made the decision to enter retirement and work on my golf game, I want to thank the Jamaica Tourist Board and Ministry of Tourism for all the wonderful opportunities and career they have afforded me. I have sincerely cherished it and am grateful for a lifetime of fond memories.”

READ: Donnie Dawson to retire after 40 years at JTB