The former chief executive of the media group which became STV has been named as the new chair of a body which supports the tourism industry in Edinburgh.
Donald Emslie will take over the reins of the Edinburgh Tourism Action Group (ETAG), which brings together key stakeholders and businesses.
The group said Emslie “brings a wealth of experience in business, media, sport and hospitality that will be crucial in continuing to drive progress within Edinburgh’s vibrant tourism sector.”
He replaces outgoing chair Robin Worsnop, as he prepares to step down following a nine-year term.
Emslie said: “ETAG’s work has played a unique and valuable role in bringing together all the many and varied sector stakeholders who are responsible for delivering a great visitor experience in Edinburgh. Looking ahead, I have no doubt that this will provide an essential platform to build on the many opportunities and challenges that face the city’s tourism sector going forward.
“Edinburgh has enjoyed eight years of continuous growth and Edinburgh’s tourism sector is in a strong position. However, it is essential that we continue to work hard to ensure that the sector continues to thrive and in doing so contributes to what make Edinburgh such a great place to live, work, study and invest, as well as visit.”
Born in Aberdeen and educated in Inverness, Emslie began his career as a as a teacher, but made an early career change into sales and marketing. After joining STV in the mid-1980s, he rose rapidly through the ranks of Scottish Television, leading the integration of Grampian TV and STV and ultimately taking on the role of chief executive of SMG Television from 1999 until 2007. This included responsibility for SMG Television, Virgin Radio, Pearl & Dean and Primesight. SMG later became STV.
Launched almost two decades ago, the ETAG has an online network of over 1,500 tourism professionals, businesses and organisations who receive regular updates on the latest information, events and business opportunities in Edinburgh.
The ETAG Annual Conference is the largest tourism industry event in the city and regularly attracts around 200 delegates.
