Ralph Higgs, the Turks and Caicos Islands’ director of tourism, has tendered his resignation.

Higgs, who has been serving with the board for 20 years, will leave his post effective Sept. 30.

Higgs was named by Caribbean Journal’s Caribbean Travel Awards as the region’s Tourism Director of the Year in 2014.

“The fundamentals of TCI Tourism are strong. Our natural sites and attractions, while some may need a little attention, are in pristine condition. Our room inventory is first class. Other offerings including culinary and our weekly cultural extravaganza (Fish Fry) are the envy of the region,” Higgs said in a statement. “We have never had more flights from international and regional gateways as we do now, and traveling between our Sister Islands has never been easier. Certainly our people have never been more embracing of our visitors and our tourism sector.”

Ralph Higgs

No successor has yet been announced.

“The blocks Ralph laid and the challenges overcame in developing, building, and marketing the Turks and Caicos Islands as a world class destination is now the envy of many in the region.” said Chairman of the Turks and Caicos Tourist Board, Don Gardiner. “Ralph’s contribution as an ambassador has no doubt left an indelible impression on us all. His leadership, experience and sound judgment will be an asset to whomever and wherever his next journey takes him.”