The drive by the Department of Tourism to become more responsive to customer needs is moving into top gear.

And as part of the move, another new post has been created with the specific task of developing the on-Island tourism product.

The assistant director, product development will join the department, along with the recently-created assistant director, corporate services.

Both successful candidates will join the Ministry at time of change, with several new posts being established and other positions being re-defined.

And there will also be a new Tourism director when current incumbent Gary Phillips retires next year.

It is understood several names are already in the hat for the top post, but no decision has been made.

Tourism Minister David Allen is keen to see his Ministry become more responsive to the needs of the industry -- to be more customer driven than in the past.

And with the enhancing and building of a new Bermuda tourism experience, the new assistant director, product development will be central to making that happen.

The job includes the development of new vacation initiatives, including educational, heritage, sports and eco-tourism.

He or she will also work with Island partners to deliver the new initiatives and improve standards across the industry.

In addition, the $81,190 to $87,391 post includes managing the inspection and licensing of hotels, administering cruise ship policy and charter schemes.