New Advisory Board will support growth of Sussex’s visitor economy

Professionals from across the Sussex tourism industry are coming together to lead the region as a global visitor destination.

The East Sussex, Brighton & Hove and West Sussex Local Visitor Economy Partnership is pleased to announce the appointment of members to its newly established LVEP Local Visitor Economy Partnership  (LVEP) Advisory Board, a key milestone in advancing the ambitions set out in the Visitor Economy Strategy for Growth. The Advisory Board will provide expert guidance to help shape Sussex’s future as a leading international visitor destination.

The visitor economy plays a vital role in the region, contributing £5 billion annually and supporting over 74,000 local jobs (equivalent to 14% of all employment). With the support of the LVEP Advisory Board, the aim is to boost the sector’s value by an additional £2.5 billion over the next decade, while also enhancing its social and environmental impact.

The LVEP Advisory Board will offer strategic leadership and will act as ambassadors, championing the sector’s development and raising Sussex’s profile on the national stage.

Bringing together private sector professionals from across the county’s diverse tourism landscape, the Board reflects the rich breadth of Sussex’s visitor economy. Industry representatives were selected through a competitive application process and bring deep knowledge, innovation, and strong local networks to the table.

Mardi Roberts, Director of Communications at Ridgeview Wine Estate and former Vice-Chair of the interim LVEP Board, has been appointed interim Chair for the coming year. With extensive experience in local, regional, national, and international tourism, Mardi’s leadership will be instrumental in steering the Board’s work and shaping the growth of the Sussex visitor economy.