South Pacific Destination Marketing Agency, Pacific Storytelling announced two key appointments to build on the recent momentum of Australia and New Zealand reopening to international markets this week. Stephen Marshall joins the agency as director of strategic relationships, and Alexa Bennett joins as director of incentive and corporate development to head up the new Business Events portfolio.
Alexa Bennett is a seasoned international business events professional, specializing in sales, marketing and operations for incentive and corporate travel. Having worked with North America's major incentive houses for a decade she knows the unique nuances and considerations required to be successful in this niche and lucrative market. Alexa will bring this sector to life for Pacific Storytelling and their clients.
Accomplished travel and tourism professional, Stephen Marshall has more than 20 years of experience in private and public sector multinational travel companies. Stephen has held leadership positions including general manager of New Zealand’s largest destination management company and most recently as the President of a major US tour operator serving the South Pacific. Stephen presently serves as consultant and advisor with New Zealand Trade and Enterprise where he supports New Zealand companies and entrepreneurs in growing sustainably in the North American market.
“We are thrilled to welcome Stephen and Alexa to the team. They both bring extensive knowledge of the South Pacific and their perspectives will be invaluable for any organization who is looking to extend their reach into the lucrative North American market” says managing director, Rƒìnata West. “Pacific Storytelling launched two years ago in the midst of a global pandemic and now with market demand increasing, the time has come to grow the agency and services on offer.”
North American visitors offer high value to the New Zealand economy. In 2019 they contributed $1.53 billion to New Zealand in tourism trade alone. Research shows they are travelers who appreciate exploring and learning new things, benefiting not only the main tourism centers, but regional cities as well. Recently many North American employers have empowered their staff to work remotely; this trend bodes well for long haul destinations like the South Pacific.
Pacific Storytelling connects the North American market to the unique stories, characters and perspectives of the South Pacific.
Dedicated to building business capability and trade relationships to benefit local communities. Stephen and Alexa join a team with extensive North American market experience promoting the people and places of the South Pacific. In addition, we have experience with major brands including Fairfax Media, Helloworld Travel, New Zealand Trade & Enterprise, The New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, Tui Travel PLC and Tourism New Zealand. Pacific Storytelling is passionate about connecting our unique part of the world to international visitors whilst promoting sustainable travel and tourism exchange.
