Visit Isle of Wight has appointed a new Visitor Project Manager, backed by the Local Sustainable Transport Fund. Zoe Stroud, who previously worked for the IW Chamber of Commerce as their Group Marketing Manager, has joined the DMO (Destination Marketing Organisation) on a one-year contract to ensure co-ordination across the Visitor LSTF projects.
Zoe is developing a team of “eco-savvy travel ambassadors”, who will be helping holiday-makers to enjoy the Island as part of the “Drive Less See More” campaign. The ambassadors will visit key tourist sites and will provide free information and special offers on some of the Island’s great car-free experiences, from riding an open-top “breezer” bus to hiring bicycles, or taking great countryside walks.
Zoe said: “I am delighted to join Visit Isle of Wight in this new exciting role. I look forward to continuing working with businesses across the island and developing new partnerships.”
David Thornton, CEO, Visit Isle of Wight said: “Zoe has shown great strengths in her different roles and is ready to apply her great enthusiasm and passion for the Island in her new role. The success of last Thursday’s (14th May) Pearl Izumi Tour Series cycle race in Ryde further reinforces the roll-out of Bicycle Island and we welcome her support in building on existing sustainable travel projects as well as supporting new initiatives”.
Working alongside Tom Ransom, VIOW’S “Bicycle Island” champion, Zoe’s other duties will include growing the walking and cycling festival economy and managing the other elements of Access to Visitor experiences.
VIOW has worked with the Isle of Wight Council to successfully secure £230,000, a third year of LSTF funding – part of which was used to bring the Pearl Izumi event to the Isle of Wight earlier this month. Some of this funding is also being used to employ Zoe who with her previous experience in the UK’s tourism industry, will bring much to the benefit of the scheme and the Island. Zoe’s new role will be entirely funded by the LSTF.
