THE year started for Sally Greenaway with a new post - head of York’s tourism body Visit York.

Tasked with helping drive forward York’s tourism strategy and ensure the city is successfully marketed to millions of potential visitors both in the UK and overseas, Sally found herself on a mission to enhance the city’s “superb” reputation even further.

Sally brought to the role expertise in customer relationship management, loyalty marketing and insights from major rail operator Virgin Trains, where she was previously loyalty marketing manager.

She previously worked for Best Western Hotels for nine years, managing direct mail, partnerships and loyalty strategy.

She said: “With both hotel occupancy and room rates at an all-time high, I’m delighted to be playing a key role in York’s tourism success.”

What job would you like to have other than your own and why?

“Hmm, a wine taster / buyer, or, I absolutely love fashion, so a fashion designer/buyer would have been very cool. These kind of jobs would have probably taken me away from York though, which means I wouldn’t have landed the best job in York, so I am pretty happy with the career path, no regrets.”

Greatest Achievement?

“On a personal level, my children. It’s a cliché but they are amazing, they make me smile, a lot, every single day, I am incredibly proud of them. On a professional level, it has to be when I was offered the job as Head of Visit York.”

What makes you angry?

“People who are rude or unkind. Life is way too short.”

What do you need to make life complete?

“Health and happiness is key. I have to say, my life is pretty complete, but the icing on the cake would be to have a luxury four-bed retreat where I can take friends and family to explore, relax, eat and drink, that would be perfect. Maybe when I win the lottery – now that would make my life complete!”

Why do you make a difference?

“I genuinely care. My team are brilliant, I am so lucky. They are so dedicated to promoting our wonderful city and showcasing what our fabulous city has to offer.

“I am passionate about getting the very most out of people and making sure that they feel empowered to make decisions, challenge and develop. My approach to management is most definitely trust, trust your team and they will thrive.”

Epitaph:

“Lived once. Loved Life.”