Miles Mercera, one of the top tourism directors in the Caribbean, is stepping down, Caribbean Journal has learned.
Mercera, who has helped lead Bonaire to record-breaking tourism arrivals since taking over back in 2021, is departing as CEO of Tourism Corporation Bonaire.
Tourism Corporation Bonaire’s board will begin the process of finding a successor “over the coming months,” it said in a statement.
Mercera’s tenure included a new branding identity, the introduction of the new visitor entry tax, new flight routes including the first-ever flights to Bonaire from JetBlue and a strong push in the events sector, including events like the popular Bonaire Rum Week.
Mercera will be serving in the role through the remainder of the year.
“It is with mixed feelings that we announce my departure. I am grateful for the trust and opportunity I have been given these past few years. As you can imagine, it wasn’t an easy decision to leave the organization or the accomplished team I feel so grateful to have worked alongside,” Mercera said. “The timing seemed right to pursue other avenues and allow a successor to share a new vision or approach. My focus in the next few months lies on a smooth transition period and to finalize projects such as the 2025 Action Plan, the launch of JetBlue and Corendon, the Tourism Summit in September 2024, and the execution of the 2024 Regatta Festival.”.”
