Bermudian hotel chief Paul Telford was yesterday announced as the new chairman of the Bermuda Tourism Authority.

Mr Telford said: “I am excited to accept this appointment at a time of great opportunity and optimism for tourism in Bermuda.

“I look forward to leading the Bermuda Tourism Authority through the next chapter of its existence and working with Mr Simmons and the Government on our shared priorities.”

Mr Telford, the managing director of Rosewood Tucker’s Point, has sat on the BTA board as a director for three years.

Mr Telford replaces BTA founding chairman David Dodwell, who has retired.

Mr Telford started his career as a bus boy at the Elbow Beach Hotel and worked overseas for brands including the Four Seasons.

Jamahl Simmons, Minister of Tourism and Economic Development, praised Mr Telford as an example of the potential of the tourism industry.

He said: “Truly Paul’s journey is something that all Bermudians can see as tangible evidence that the tourism industry is not just a job, but a career.

“With a good work ethic and dedication to your trade there is no limit to your dreams.”

Mr Dodwell was instrumental in the creation of the BTA in 2013.

His term was scheduled to end last December, but he agreed to remain in the post until after the America’s Cup.

Mr Dodwell said: “I am proud of the founding board of the BTA and its hard working staff.

“We achieved a tremendous amount with the members of the community, without whose support the success we have seen would not have been possible.

He added: “I am confident that Mr Telford is the right leader to take the board and the organisation forward.”

Mr Simmons thanked Mr Dodwell for his service and said: “He helped build the structure of the BTA from the ground up, provided guidance and assistance in securing the BTA’s accreditation as an official destination marketing organisation and steered the BTA through a seamless chief executive changeover.”