CDC to get new CEO by next week

In addition to the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer for the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC), some changes have been slated for the marketing of VincyMas 2025.

It was announced, back in September 2024, that long-standing CEO of the CDC, Ashford Wood will be hanging up his hat as head of the unit primarily responsible for the organisation and promotion of VincyMas.

The post has been publicly advertised over the last few months, and Minister of Tourism and Culture, Carlos James disclosed that by next week, a new CEO will be appointed.

Speaking on WEFM’s Issues at Hand programme on Sunday, February 2, 2025 Minister James said there is “ongoing restructuring” at the CDC.

“We have taken a different approach for marketing of festivals, including VincyMas…” he explained, adding that the task of marketing was usually handled in-house by the CDC.

“I said to them, we have to have a strategic approach for our marketing of the festival and they are now largely supported by the Tourism Authority.

“There is work ongoing with the Board and stakeholders to ensure that we have a really good festival.”

Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves recently made comments criticizing some Vincy Mas events, describing them as ”boring”.

During a prize-giving ceremony last year, Gonsalves said some emphasis needs to be placed on refreshing VincyMas to make it more appealing to the various age segments.