Former Little Rock Mayor Jim Dailey will be the next director of the Arkansas Tourism Division, the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism announced Thursday night.
Dailey, who served as mayor from 1993 to 2006, will replace current director Joe David Rice, who retires Dec. 31 after 30 years as director. Dailey will assume his duties on Jan. 1.
The announcement was made by Kane Webb, executive director of the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism.
"Jim Dailey has been a dedicated public servant in The Natural State for most of his adult life and has devoted countless hours and energy to the tourism industry as a member of the Arkansas State Parks, Recreation and Travel Commission," Webb said in a news release announcing the appointment. "He is a natural fit for this position, and I'm pleased that he has agreed to come on board in this new role."
The Arkansas Tourism director leads the state's efforts to increase tourism and to enhance the image of the state. Dailey will lead a team of 67 employees based in Little Rock and across Arkansas, including 13 welcome centers placed at strategic entry points into the state, with an additional welcome center located in Little Rock. Additionally, he will oversee the division's annual operating and marketing budgets.
"I will not be able to replace Joe David, but I hope to build upon the positive reputation he has established for Arkansas," Dailey said in the release. "I look forward to working with the entire Parks and Tourism staff and with tourism industry partners from across the state."
Metro on 09/21/2017