The former chief operating officer of the Bermuda Tourism Authority has taken the helm as the new head of the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute.

Karla Lacey – one of the founding members of the BTA’s executive – stepped down from the organisation last month after almost seven years.

Ron Stan and Will Cox, co-chairmen of the BUEI board, said yesterday: “Karla brings a wealth of organisational leadership experience and service delivery expertise to the BUEI team.

“The board is excited about the prospects for BUEI going forward, and we look forward to working with Karla as she builds on the excellent groundwork that her predecessor and team have laid over the last thirty months.”

The board also highlighted the contribution of former CEO Tara Curtis, who helped manage BUEI through “the uncharted and troubling waters” of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Ms Lacey was the first person hired by the BTA’s founding CEO, Bill Hanbury, and oversaw the development of the body’s organisational processes.

She tendered her resignation to the BTA last May, but remained in the post until last month.