Fresh Leadership at Visit Isle of Wight Now Aims to Revitalize Island Tourism and Visitor Economy, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on November 28, 2025

The Visit Isle of Wight tourism board has promised a fresh start for the Isle’s visitor economy due to the resignation of its Managing Director in the position. The Isle is suffering from a decline in tourism while the new board members have promised transparency, a change in vision, and a recommitment to the community’s tourism economy. This change is needed more than ever in Isle of Wight tourism, as reports detailing a decline in summer visitors have sparked anxiety within the community.

A New Chapter for Isle of Wight Tourism

The resignation of Will Myles, who held the position for seven years, marks a significant turning point for Visit Isle of Wight. Myles stepped down just days after it was revealed that the island had seen another drop in summer tourism figures, triggering a period of reflection and change within the tourism body. In response, the tourism board has introduced a fresh leadership approach, focusing on accountability, transparency, and collaboration with the island’s tourism businesses.

The board’s new strategy revolves around rebuilding the trust of local businesses, many of which pay into the Business Improvement District (BID) levy. This initiative, designed to reinvigorate the tourism sector, aims to strengthen governance and improve the overall effectiveness of tourism marketing on the island.

Strengthening Governance for a Brighter Future

One of the key elements of the new board’s approach is a focus on strengthening governance. Recognizing that past processes may have fallen short in certain areas, the board has committed to a comprehensive review of its internal operations. This includes an independent review of its governance structure to ensure that previous issues are not repeated. The goal is to enhance decision-making, ensure better accountability, and build a more robust framework for future initiatives.

The board’s spokesperson stated, “We are dedicated to ensuring that the issues of the past do not resurface. Our aim is to restore confidence and trust, and to guarantee that every business, especially BID levy payers, sees tangible benefits from our actions.”

Revamping Marketing Strategies to Drive Tourist Traffic

The board has also prioritized a comprehensive review of Visit Isle of Wight’s marketing strategy. With tourism numbers on the decline, it is essential for the island to reassess its promotional efforts and focus on ensuring that marketing dollars are spent effectively. The new board members are committed to making sure that every investment in marketing is transparent and accountable, ensuring the best possible return for levy payers and enhancing the island’s overall appeal to potential visitors.

The marketing review will cover past, present, and future campaigns, ensuring that all tourism-related marketing efforts are fully aligned with the needs of the local economy. By focusing on strategic, targeted marketing, the board hopes to not only increase the island’s visibility but also deliver more foot traffic and economic activity in the region.

Engaging with Local Businesses Through Regular Meetings

Another significant change introduced by the new board is the launch of regular members’ meetings. These meetings will provide a platform for BID levy payers to engage directly with the board, ask questions, and offer feedback on the tourism strategy moving forward. This transparent approach will give local businesses a voice in the decision-making process, ensuring that the island’s tourism strategies are closely aligned with the needs of those most affected by its success.

The board is encouraging all BID levy payers to register as official members. This step is crucial for businesses to actively participate in shaping the direction of tourism development on the island. Membership will give these businesses the ability to vote on key decisions, ensuring they are directly involved in the tourism body’s activities.

Rebuilding the Island’s Visitor Economy

The new leadership of Visit Isle of Wight is fully aware of the challenges the island faces in terms of attracting tourists. With tourism figures showing a decline in recent years, the island must find ways to reinvigorate its image and offer new, compelling reasons for visitors to come. The fresh start initiated by the new board could be just what the island needs to restore its status as a leading tourist destination in the UK.

The new strategy’s focus on rebuilding trust, improving transparency, and ensuring accountability is vital for the island’s long-term tourism recovery. By fostering collaboration between local businesses and the tourism board, the hope is that Isle of Wight will once again thrive as a vibrant destination for both domestic and international tourists.

Creating a Unified Vision for Isle of Wight Tourism

Ultimately, the new leadership at Visit Isle of Wight is focused on creating a unified vision for the future of tourism on the island. This includes working closely with local businesses to ensure that their interests are at the heart of future decisions and that the island’s visitor economy is positioned for sustainable growth. By embracing transparency and collaboration, the board is taking the necessary steps to ensure that Isle of Wight remains a beloved destination for tourists for years to come.

A Promising Future for Isle of Wight Tourism

The tourism community around Isle of Wight has a lot of hope for the future of the island. Starting this new phase with new leadership on the island and the commitment to transparency and collaboration, the island will be able to recover from its stagnation and become a leading tourism destination in the UK, Once the organised leadership on the Isle of Wight implements appropriate governance and tourism management strategies, the numerous visitors flocking to this beautiful region of the UK every year, as well as the local business community, will be able to reap the benefits.