Mauritius Tourism Set for Transformation with Paul T. Jones at the Helm

The Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) has announced the strategic appointment of Paul T. Jones CMG, a globally acclaimed hospitality leader, as a Consultant on a voluntary basis. This landmark move signifies the beginning of a transformative era for the Authority and for Mauritius tourism. Approved by the MTPA Board, this prestigious appointment highlights the Authority's commitment to accelerating its transformation, enhancing its international profile, and advancing a powerful long-term vision to establish Mauritius as one of the world's most exceptional and sought-after destinations.

Paul T. Jones brings an extraordinary depth of experience, strategic insight, and global credibility to the MTPA, cultivated over five decades of leadership at the highest echelons of the international hospitality industry, coupled with a lifelong connection to Mauritius. He is widely recognized for his significant role in shaping Mauritius' emergence as a premier luxury destination. In his new capacity, Mr. Jones will provide crucial support to the MTPA's leadership team on key strategic initiatives, as the institution undergoes ongoing restructuring and renewal.

His distinguished career began in Mauritius, where he first established his reputation as General Manager of Le Saint Géran, instrumental in transforming the resort into an iconic luxury property. He subsequently served as Managing Director of Sun Resorts Ltd, overseeing seven hotels across the Indian Ocean and achieving exceptional growth and international acclaim. Collaborating with legendary hotelier Sol Kerzner, Mr. Jones further advanced his career as Chief Operating Officer, Managing Director, and later President of One&Only Resorts, where he spearheaded the global launch of the brand in 2002 and helped establish it as a leading ultra-luxury hospitality group worldwide. In 2010, he was appointed Chief Executive Officer of LUX Island Resorts*, where he led a major strategic transformation and successfully rebranded the group into The LUX Collective, while also guiding the creation of innovative lifestyle brands such as SALT and SOCIO. In 2018, he relocated to Singapore to continue driving the group's international expansion as Chief Executive Officer.

Leadership within the MTPA expressed their enthusiasm for this appointment. Dinesh Burrenchobay, Chairman of the MTPA, stated his delight at Paul Jones's acceptance, emphasizing that his unrivalled experience and deep understanding of Mauritius will be invaluable as the Authority develops a sustainable long-term tourism strategy, diversifies its destination offering, and rolls out ambitious international projects. Mr. Burrenchobay lauded Jones's extensive contributions to the success and global reputation of Mauritius' tourism industry, acknowledging him as a true Mauritian at heart. Benoit Harter, Director of the MTPA, echoed this sentiment, calling it a turning point for the MTPA. He highlighted that bringing world-class expertise into the organization reflects their determination to build a stronger, more agile, and more effective Tourism Authority, especially as they implement a long-term strategy designed to reposition Mauritius among the world's leading tourism destinations and ensure its industry remains competitive for decades to come. Paul T. Jones himself expressed his honor in accepting the invitation to join the MTPA in a consultative role during this exciting period of transformation, looking forward to working closely with