Welcome to Yorkshire has announced that chief executive James Mason is to leave the tourism agency after less than two years in charge.
Mr Mason was hired in December 2019 to replace Sir Gary Verity.
Mr Mason will stay in the post until October 22.
Chair of Welcome to Yorkshire, Peter Box CBE said “We would like to thank James for the commitment and energy he has demonstrated during a particularly turbulent time for tourism and for the organisation.
“When James joined as chief executive almost two years ago there were many challenges to deal with.
“A positive plan was put in place to continue showcasing Yorkshire to the world and despite the COVID-19 pandemic adding a new and unexpected level of challenges for the tourism industry, James tackled all issues head-on and worked tirelessly.
“He embraced all aspects of the role passionately and with creativity. A board meeting will be arranged to discuss the next steps for Welcome to Yorkshire. We would like to wish James and his family well for the future.”
Mr Mason said: “I’m honoured to have held this position and to lead a team of talented hard-working people.
“I’d like to express my gratitude to them all along with the many wonderful people across Yorkshire I’ve met in this role.
“It has been a privilege to work with you all, to promote Yorkshire to the world and stand shoulder to shoulder with you through a pandemic. I only wish the organisation well going forward and most importantly the thousands of businesses that make Yorkshire so unique.
“Whilst working under difficult conditions at times, there is lots we can be proud of, such as the much-loved ‘Walkshire’ campaign, the launch of a personal membership and tree planting scheme, as well as the implementation of a Tourism Recovery Plan.
He added: “The decision to leave wasn’t an easy one as I have really enjoyed the role but I’m excited about putting my energy into my new role.”
It was announced last month that the Tour de Yorkshire, which is part-organised by Welcome to Yorkshire would not go ahead next year.
Earlier this year, Welcome to Yorkshire was given an extra six months to repay a £500,000 taxpayer-funded loan.
North Yorkshire County Council first agreed to lend the cash in September 2019 after financial difficulties meant the troubled tourism agency would have run out of money and been unable to pay staff.
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