CTO appoints Lotus as UK PR agency

Colin Pegler, chair of the CTO’s UK and Europe chapter, said the firm’s Caribbean expertise made them an "ideal partner" during what he said would be a "vital period" for the region as it emerges from the coronavirus crisis.

Besides Pegler, Lotus will also report to secretariat head Carol Hay. The CO represents more than 65 travel-related businesses, including airlines, cruise lines, tour operators, destinations and hotel representatives, with the aim of increasing tourist numbers, revenue and overall business to the Caribbean.

Jules Ugo, Lotus chief executive, will head up the account, along with associate director Jo Johnson, Lotus’ in-house Caribbean expert.

Her work includes extensive involvement with trade associations and other industry bodies, including the Latin American Travel Association and European Tourism Association – both accounts held by Lotus.

Johnson has been involved in promoting the Caribbean during her entire 30-year PR and communications career. She oversaw communication of Caribbean Connections’ rebrand as ITC, and has headed up campaigns for Royal Pavilion and Glitter Bay in Barbados.

She has also previously worked with the Bahamas National Tourist Office, and advised the St Vincent and Grenadines Tourism Authority.