Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame R. Gavoka, has announced the resignation of Tourism Fiji CEO Brent Hill, commending his outstanding contribution to the recovery and growth of the tourism industry.
“On behalf of the Fiji Government and the people of Fiji, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr Brent Hill for his incredible service to our nation,” said DPM Gavoka.
“Brent’s leadership over the past four years has not only helped revitalise our tourism sector after the global pandemic but also elevated Fiji’s image on the world stage with authenticity and heart.”
Hill was praised for championing Fijian culture, sustainability, and inclusivity—ensuring that the growth of tourism created meaningful opportunities for local MSMEs, artisans, and communities. Under his leadership, campaigns like Where Happiness Comes Naturally captured the essence of Fiji and resonated globally.
“While we bid Brent farewell with gratitude, we also wish him and his family the very best as they begin their next chapter in Australia. Vinaka vakalevu, Brent!”
In response, Hill expressed heartfelt thanks:
“What a tireless champion for tourism and the people in it you are. You have so much passion and love for Fiji it was infectious, and I’m proud to have played a small role alongside yourself in achieving the success we have. Vinaka.”
Earlier in May 2025, Hill had shared in an interview with The Fiji Times that Tourism Fiji was seeking a modest increase in its budget allocation in the upcoming 2025–2026 National Budget.
“Last year our allocation was about $45 million. We’re looking at just a modest increase on that,” Hill said, citing rising global competition, the need to spend in strong currencies like the US dollar, and the importance of keeping pace with the growth of Fiji Airways.
“We need the money to be able to do that… but we are doing it in a modest way as well, with the revenue that comes back from tourism.”
Tourism Fiji Chair Andre Viljoen, who has also resigned as CEO of Fiji Airways, praised Brent Hill as an outstanding and inspirational leader whose strategic vision and commitment to Fijian culture significantly shaped the organisation and tourism sector. He noted Hill’s strong focus on sustainability, including the large-scale introduction of electric vehicles, the development of a green-certified office in Nadi, and initiatives like the Bin It or Bag It campaign and Loloma Hour.
Viljoen also acknowledged Hill’s efforts in building a high-performing team and leading the development of two major corporate plans, which contributed to record-breaking visitor arrivals post-COVID.
A global search is now underway to find Hill’s successor, as he prepares to conclude his role at Tourism Fiji at the end of August. Originally from Adelaide, Hill’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter, with his leadership credited for guiding the industry’s recovery and repositioning Fiji as a premium, people-focused travel destination.
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