The Malta Association for Hospitality Executives this evening expressed concern over speculation about who will replace former Malta Tourism Authority CEO Josef Formosa Gauci following his recent resignation.

It said major foreign tour operators were asking serious questions about this resignation following the ferocious attack on Mr Formosa Gauci in January.

Josef Formosa Gauci

“Whoever will occupy this position has the responsibility towards all tourism and hospitality workers as well as to provide the best tourism offer to all guest visiting our islands. Mr Formosa Gauci has always been praised by the industry for his in depth knowledge and close contacts with key stakeholders that form the tourism industry both locally and internationally.

“He was always considered a team member rather than boss, who had only the best interest for the industry.”

The MAHE said that finding a new CEO would not be easy for anyone. The industry needed someone who was knowledgeable, understood and felt passionate about tourism and hospitality.

Association president Joe Attard said politics should be kept miles away from such a volatile and sensitive industry.

MAHE thanked Mr Formosa Gauci for his six years of dedication and said it looked forward to cooperating with whoever took up this role to ensure a smooth transition.