Lew Rood, a highly regarded tourism veteran with more than 45 years’ experience in the industry, passed away peacefully at his Cape Town home on the evening of Sunday, May 4.
Rood was International Sales Manager for Springbok Atlas Tours & Safaris for 12 years between 1980 and 1992. He played an integral role in building up the Singita brand in his 18-year tenure as Public Relations and Trade Relations Manager (from 1993 to 2012) before venturing into a career as a deeply respected, knowledgeable and passionate specialist tourism and hospitality consultant.
Sheree Simpson, Founder of sales and marketing representation company Africa in Your Hands, described Rood as an exceptional mentor and ambassador for the tourism industry.
“He was my mentor, teaching me everything I needed to know about forming professional relationships and networking in the industry. In the 33 years I knew him, his influence extended to countless others.
“He represented and helped to build so many exceptional African tourism products. He was the consummate networker, deeply respected and very much loved. Beyond that, he was incredibly kind, thoughtful and generous with the best sense of humour. His passing leaves a massive hole in the tourism industry.”
Memorial service
Date and time: Thursday, May 22 at 14h00
Location: Christ Church Kenilworth, Cape Town (reception to follow at The Homestead, 23 Bardia Road, Plumstead)
RSVP: Barry Strick at b@barrystrick.com or 082 826 3030
