SA Tourism has appointed Corne Koch to the position of Chief Convention Bureau Officer, effective December 1.
Koch will head the South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB) business unit, which plays a central role in securing domestic, regional and international MICE. The unit secured 35 bids in the first half of 2025, valued at R415 million (US$24.1 million) and attracting nearly 16 000 delegates to the country.
Koch brings almost 20 years of experience in tourism destination marketing and promotion to her new position. She most recently served as Head of the Cape Town and Western Cape Convention Bureau at Wesgro.
“I am honoured to join the SANCB and to continue its role in strengthening South Africa as the continent’s premier home for business events,” said Koch. “Business events are powerful drivers of economic and knowledge growth for a destination, extending far beyond tourism. Our industry thrives because of passionate professionals across government, academia and industry who contribute to the growth of this sector.”
SA Tourism Acting CEO and COO Darryl Erasmus said the appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the DMO.
“Strengthening leadership within our organisation is vital as we move into a defining era for SA Tourism. Her leadership comes at an ideal time as we prepare for the 20th edition of Meetings Africa in February and Africa’s Travel Indaba in May,” said Erasmus.
SA Tourism is exhibiting its business events capabilities at IBTM World in Barcelona from November 18-20 while the country is also gearing up to host the G20 Leaders’ Summit this weekend.
