Tourism and Events Queensland begins search for new Chief Executive

Following a decision by current TEQ Chief Executive, Leanne Coddington (pictured) to step down late this year after nine years as Chief Executive, Tourism and Events Queensland has begun an extensive search for her replacement.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk thanked Coddington for her contribution to Queensland’s tourism industry noting “Leanne Coddington has skilfully supported Queensland tourism operators through the once-in-a-lifetime challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“As CEO of Tourism and Events Queensland, Ms Coddington has overseen many innovative marketing campaigns to champion Queensland holiday destinations to Australia and the world.

“Ms Coddington’s decision follows the remarkable domestic recovery of Queensland tourism and the industry’s relaunch in key global markets.”

Queensland Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said Coddington had worked with Tourism and Events Queensland for more than 25 years and added “Leanne will leave a wonderful legacy not only within Tourism and Events Queensland, but also the wider Australian tourism industry.

“I admire Ms Coddington’s enthusiasm, expertise and the many first-class tourism industry relationships she has built in Queensland, Australia and globally.

“Mr Coddington is the driving force behind our It’s Live! In Queensland events calendar that will this year alone deliver more than a half-a-billion dollars to the State’s visitor economies.

“The inspirational images of Queensland visitor experiences and destinations you’ve seen on TV and social media are the work of a terrific team at TEQ, led by Leanne Coddington.

“Ms Coddington has successfully guided TEQ through some of toughest conditions ever faced by the industry, which is now emerging for the pandemic stronger than ever.

“Through it all, Leanne has made sure everybody knows there’s no better holiday destination in the world than Queensland.

“Leanne’s successor will have big shoes to fill.”

Coddington said it had been a privilege to work with Tourism and Events Queensland and shared “I’ve absolutely loved the opportunity to lead Tourism and Events Queensland over the past nine years and for it to have been part of my life for over 25 years.

“The Queensland Government has always supported myself and TEQ to grow the tourism and events sector by delivering creative campaigns and innovative programs.

“I greatly admire the tourism and events industry’s inbuilt resilience to come back stronger after every hurdle and look forward to seeing it continue to go from strength-to-strength.”