Visit Lincoln chief executive to step down

Visit Lincoln will be recruiting a new chief executive later this summer after Lydia Rusling announced she will step down at the end of August.

Lydia, who has been chief executive for two and a half years, is leaving to take a new senior role at East Lindsey District Council. She will take up the role of Head of Organisational Improvement and Development at the council on September 2.

During her time at Visit Lincoln Lydia helped set up the campaign jointly run by them and The Lincolnite, to try and keep the Red Arrows in Lincolnshire.

Lydia said: “It has been a privilege to work with such an outstanding and talented team of staff and directors. I feel honoured to have led such a wonderful organisation and I know it will go from strength to strength in the future.

“I’ve been with Visit Lincoln for just over two and a half years, and I’ve had a marvellous time. I don’t suppose that many people can be lucky enough to feel as positively about their job as I’ve felt about mine over that time. During my time at Visit Lincoln, we have seen record growth for the tourism industry in the city and county, the growth of the Partnership and the extension of the company’s work into place marketing.

“I’ve worked incredibly hard to develop Visit Lincoln and secure its future, and I’m proud to be handing the business over in an excellent position – and ready for its next leader.”

The new chief executive will have overall responsibility for the leadership and management of the organisation. They will also work with a dedicated team of digital, business development, PR and marketing experts.

For more information about the job role click here. The salary is between £40,000 to £44,000 per annum and the closing date is on Sunday, August 4.

Mark Hollingworth, Chair of the Visit Lincoln Board, said: “Visit Lincoln has a vital role to play in shaping the future success of the visitor economy, linking business and organisations across the area with key attractions and events.

“With so many great opportunities on the horizon to champion Lincoln and Lincolnshire as a place to visit, live and work, our search for the next Chief Executive presents a rare opportunity for emerging leaders to be part of an exciting new era for the industry in Lincoln.

“We’re grateful to Lydia for all the amazing work she has done. She has made a tremendous contribution to the city. We wish her every success in her new role.”

Visit Lincoln works with over 200 businesses and organisations across Lincolnshire.

Tourism and visitor spend now contributes more than £216 million to the Lincoln economy and supports over 2,500 jobs – making it one of the largest sectors in Lincolnshire.