The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) announced, that Jeffrey M. Shubert will succeed Lily Shum as the Regional Director for The Americas. Mr Shubert, who joined the HKTB on 01 April, will fully assume his responsibilities on 01 May.

In his new role, Mr Shubert will formulate and direct the HKTB`s marketing strategies throughout The Americas, contribute to the Board`s overall global planning; maintain the strong trade-partner network in the region; develop high-yield business; and act as the HKTB`s key regional spokesman with the media, trade and other bodies.

Mr Shubert joins the HKTB following a distinguished, 20-year career in management, marketing and branding, serving large advertising agencies and
corporations including Foote, Cone & Belding (FCB), Dae Advertising and Goldberg Moser O`Neill, part of the Interpublic Lowe Group. His experience covers a wide range of sectors, from travel and financial services to fast- moving consumer goods and high-technology products. Past clients of Mr. Shubert included Cisco Systems, Colgate-Palmolive, Citicorp, Tourism Indonesia, Garuda Indonesia and British Caledonian.

Prior to joining the HKTB, Mr Shubert was providing consultancy services on brand strategy. He also spent six years during the 1980s living and
working in Asia, including three years in Hong Kong.

HKTB Executive Director Clara Chong expressed her full confidence in Mr Shubert`s appointment. I am delighted that Jeff has joined us to lead our activities in The Americas, she said. I am confident that his extensive knowledge of and proven experience in marketing and brand management should help us to continue building upon the growth momentum created by the latest record arrival trend of the American market, and that he will prove to be an invaluable member of our team.

Ms Chong also paid tribute to Ms Shum`s long contribution and dedication to Hong Kong, the city`s tourism industry and the HKTB. Ms Shum spent some 22 years with the HKTB (formerly the Hong Kong Tourist Association), taking on many important roles and responsibilities in the Hong Kong office before moving to The Americas seven years ago. She leaves the HKTB on May 31, having led The Americas to a record 1.39 million arrivals in 2004.