GEORGETOWN, GUYANA — The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has reinforced its leadership structure for the upcoming 2026-2028 term, announcing the reelection of William “Billy” Griffith as chair of its Allied Board. The announcement, made on October 6 during the CTO’s prestigious State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) in Guyana, signals a commitment to blending seasoned regional expertise with innovative private-sector perspectives.
Griffith, the managing director of WCG Consulting Ltd. and current chairman of the Bermuda Tourism Authority, brings over 40 years of hospitality and tourism experience to the role. His reappointment ensures continuity as the organization navigates a complex global travel landscape. Joining him on the board is returning member Danny Cohanpour, founder and CEO of Trove Tourism Development Advisors, whose previous tenure was marked by the successful launch of the Allied Member Insights Series, a platform designed to bolster knowledge sharing across the region.
The leadership team is rounded out by three newly elected members who represent a diverse cross-section of the industry. Amrita Bhalla, managing director of A.B. Consulting, joins with a focus on human resources and talent strategy. Joseph Boschulte, president and CEO of The West Indian Company Ltd. (WICO) and former U.S. Virgin Islands tourism commissioner, brings deep insight into cruise port operations and governmental tourism policy. Christos Shepherd, founder and CEO of The Visitor Card LLC and former chief commercial officer of JetBlue Travel Products, adds a specialized layer of aviation and commercial performance expertise to the board’s agenda.
Dona Regis-Prosper, CTO Secretary-General and CEO, lauded the new board for its broad range of capabilities. “A strong allied membership connects CTO’s regional priorities with the skills and resources needed to advance them,” she stated. “This team brings complementary perspectives that will support our work to strengthen Caribbean tourism, develop our people, and expand opportunities through public-private collaboration.”
The Allied Board serves a critical function as the bridge between private-sector entities and the CTO’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee. Its primary mandate involves recommending strategic regional programs, expanding the organization’s nongovernmental membership base, and coordinating efforts to foster synergy between private stakeholders and government officials at marquee regional events.
The election took place amid the backdrop of SOTIC 2026, which has brought together tourism leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to address the future of the Caribbean travel sector. This year’s conference is supported by a robust list of industry partners, including Amadeus, the Inter-American Development Bank, and Carnival Corporation. As the new board settles into its two-year term, stakeholders will be looking to this group of industry veterans to drive sustainable growth and foster the public-private partnerships necessary to secure the region’s long-term competitive edge in the global tourism market.
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