Tourism promotion organisation South African Tourism (SA Tourism) has appointed Darryl Erasmus as new COO.

He will be responsible for the oversight role of SA Tourism’s Corporate Services functions, while supporting and ensuring effective operations of its internal business units. Additionally, he will fulfil the responsibility of driving in-country localisation and execution of global strategies.

Erasmus previously worked for SA Tourism as chief quality assurance officer in the tourism grading council business unit. He has a wealth of expertise and leadership experience, having worked in the hospitality, tourism and corporate communications sectors.

“We are pleased to welcome Darryl back to SA Tourism as our new COO. This appointment will strengthen our management structures and contribute to driving our strategic objectives forward, while improving our destination’s competitiveness. His leadership will enhance our operational excellence and global impact,” said SA Tourism CEO Nombulelo Guliwe.

Further, Erasmus has also held senior marketing, sales, and leadership roles with brands such as Travelport, Protea Hotels, and Intercontinental Hotels. He has also worked marketing communications company BLAZE Integrated Hospitality Marketing Agency as MD.

Most recently, he provided advisory and consulting skills for commercial services in the tourism and hospitality sector as a director at DAX Advisory Services.

“I am excited to be rejoining SA Tourism, returning to an organisation for which I have a deep affinity and personal connection. I extend my sincere gratitude to the CEO and board for the opportunity to serve South Africa and the tourism sector at large once again.

“I am committed to collectively building a capable and high-performance entity that champions the growth of tourism, amplifying its economic impact, raising the sector's profile, and displaying the beauty of our country to the global community,” Erasmus said.

Erasmus is completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Studies from Henley Business School; has completed a Postgraduate Global Executive Development Programme from the Gordon Institute of Business Science; and a Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing and Business Management from Oxford Brooks University.

He also has qualifications in Financial Management, Training Management, Manager Development, Marketing and Business Management.

“I eagerly anticipate reconnecting with the team and collaborating with industry stakeholders domestically and abroad to promote our exceptional destination that delivers unforgettable and uniquely authentic South African experiences,” he said.