Nevis Tourism Authority Appoints Shelisia T. Glasford as Director of VIP and MICE Services

Shelisia T. Glasford’s appointment as Director of VIP and MICE Services by the Nevis Tourism Authority (NTA) marks a significant strategic move to elevate the island’s position within the luxury travel and business tourism sectors. Glasford’s extensive global experience in high-end hospitality, coupled with her demonstrable leadership skills and commitment to exceptional guest service, positions her ideally to spearhead Nevis’s efforts in attracting discerning travelers and prestigious international events. Her mandate encompasses the development and execution of premium guest experiences, fostering key partnerships, and strategically promoting Nevis as a world-class destination for both leisure and business purposes. This appointment underscores the NTA’s dedication to innovative leadership and strategic growth within the luxury travel market.

Glasford’s impressive career trajectory spans over a decade, encompassing esteemed establishments in Switzerland, Australia, and the United States. From her initial role at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort to leadership positions at renowned properties like The Breakers Palm Beach and the Park Hyatt brand in both St. Kitts and Sydney, her experience has provided her with a deep understanding of the intricacies of luxury hospitality operations. Her most recent role as Duty Manager at Park Hyatt Sydney further honed her skills in guest service, operational management, and leading diverse teams, all crucial attributes for navigating the complexities of the global tourism landscape. This wealth of international experience makes her uniquely qualified to lead Nevis’s foray into the competitive high-end travel market.

The appointment has been met with enthusiastic endorsement from key figures within the Nevisian government and tourism sector. Premier Mark Brantley and NTA Board Chair Pamela Martin both emphasized the importance of Glasford’s expertise and passion for excellence in aligning with Nevis’s tourism growth ambitions. They recognize her ability to not only elevate the island’s VIP and MICE services but also enhance its global brand presence, attracting both individual high-net-worth travelers and large-scale business events. This collaborative approach between government and the tourism authority signifies a united front in promoting Nevis as a premier destination.

Glasford’s robust educational background complements her practical experience. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in International Hospitality and Tourism Management from the prestigious César Ritz Colleges in Switzerland and an Executive Postgraduate Diploma in International Hospitality Management from Les Roches Marbella in Spain—two of the world’s leading hospitality institutions—she possesses a strong theoretical foundation in the principles of luxury service and global tourism management. Her academic credentials, combined with her on-the-ground experience, solidify her expertise in crafting bespoke experiences for discerning clientele.

Throughout her career, Glasford has consistently demonstrated a commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences, from managing housekeeping and front office operations to fostering strong relationships with VIP guests and leading concierge teams. Her proven ability to maintain luxury service standards across large teams, as evidenced by her work at Park Hyatt St. Kitts, highlights her capacity to implement high-quality service delivery consistently. Furthermore, her experience in onboarding, training, and coordinating interdepartmental efforts underscores her understanding of the importance of seamless guest experiences, a crucial aspect of luxury hospitality.

With Glasford at the helm of the NTA’s VIP and MICE strategy, Nevis is well-positioned to establish itself as a leading destination in the global luxury travel and business events market. Her leadership is expected to enhance the island’s appeal to high-end travelers, attracting prestigious events and ultimately contributing to the growth of the Nevisian economy. This strategic appointment signifies a clear intention to blend world-class service with the unique Caribbean charm and cultural richness that Nevis offers, creating a truly distinctive and appealing destination for the most discerning global traveler.