Embracing technology: Marva Williams outlines vision as new DDA CEO

Newly appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA), Marva Williams is eager to forge her own legacy as she takes over from her former boss, Colin Piper.

Piper announced in February that he was stepping down as CEO after 15 years. His last day in office was May 4.

Williams took office on August 1, marking her return to the DDA after previously serving as the Festivals and Events Manager from 2019 to 2022.

Speaking with Loop Caribbean on the sidelines of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) on October 27, Williams said a key part of her leadership would be embracing new technology in the promotion of Dominica.

“The good thing about it is the former CEO and I, we all have different personalities. But we sort of have the same vision. We’re different in age. So there are certain things that I believe that we need to align ourselves with to make us relevant,” she said.

“Digital technology is a thing now. If you want to remain relevant, you have to be transparent. And again, you have to show yourself. It’s about taking risks. You know, investing and taking those big risks with the media. And for me, it’s how you engage with the stakeholders in that space.  So continual education is important. Positioning is important. Market research is important.”

Williams expressed confidence in her team at the DDA as they move to implement new promotion activities that will make Dominica a premier choice for tourists.