ATITHI - Tourism Sector Initiative (A philanthropic organisation incubated by TCF)
Unlocking Indias Tourism Potential: A Key Driver of Economic Growth
Tourism as an Economic Engine
Tourism plays a vital role in India's economy, generating over $200 billion in 2023, accounting for 5.5% of GDP. More importantly, it is a major job creator, supporting nearly 40 million jobs (8% of national employment). Every million rupees invested in tourism generates 78 jobs, compared to 18 in manufacturing and 45 in agriculture. Additionally, 54% of the tourism workforce comprises women, highlighting the sectors role in fostering economic inclusion.
A Key Source of Foreign Exchange
In 2023, India welcomed 10 million foreign tourists, contributing $28 billion in foreign exchange earnings. While global travel was impacted by COVID-19, India's foreign tourist arrivals have nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels, signalling a strong recovery.
Indias Untapped Global Potential
Despite its diverse geography and rich cultural heritage, India attracts only 1.5-1.7% of global tourism. In contrast, China saw 66 million foreign tourists in 2019, while Vietnam and Thailand welcomed 18 million and 40 million, respectively. This gap presents a significant opportunity for Indias tourism sector to grow with the right strategies.
Vision 2047: A $3 Trillion Tourism Economy
With focused efforts, India can become a $3 trillion tourism economy by 2047, achieving interim goals of $500 billion by 2030 and $1 trillion by 2036. To meet these targets, tourism growth must accelerate to 12% annually, requiring strategic planning, investment, and policy support.
Role Summary
ATITHI is seeking a dynamic entrepreneurial leader to help drive India's tourism sector forward. This role is focused on maximising the sector's contribution to economic growth through strategic planning, stakeholder collaboration, and policy influence. The ideal candidate will bring deep industry expertise or the ability to quickly master the tourism sector's intricacies while leading large-scale initiatives to enhance India's tourism landscape.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic & Organisational Leadership
Define and execute ATITHIs strategy to position it as a key enabler in strengthening Indias tourism sector.
Position ATITHI as a leading organisation, securing long-term funding and strategic partnerships to drive sustainable impact.
Build a strong leadership team, enhance internal capabilities, and foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and excellence.
Develop a scalable business plan, ensuring efficient resource allocation, financial sustainability, and operational excellence.
Stakeholder Engagement & Advocacy
Strengthen relationships with government bodies, tourism boards, private sector partners, and global tourism organisations.
Influence policy and investment decisions to create a favourable environment for sustainable tourism growth.
Lead select strategic programmes in collaboration with state and central governments.
Research & Impact
Conduct market and economic impact analyses to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities in the tourism sector.
Advocate for policy reforms and industry best practices to support tourism expansion and sectoral development.
Candidate Profile
Experience
Proven track record in tourism management, policy development, consulting, or related fields.
Prior experience in a leadership role within a multi-stakeholder environment.
Skills & Competencies
Strategic thinking with the ability to drive sector-wide transformation.
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence high-level decision-makers.
Proven experience in setting up, scaling, or strengthening organizations.
Expertise in tourism sector dynamics (or a multi-sectoral background with the ability to quickly adapt).
Education
Advanced degree in Business Administration, Tourism Management, Public Policy, or a related field.
Personal Attributes
A leader with a passion for economic development through tourism.
Ability to drive large-scale initiatives with urgency and adaptability.
Why Join?
This role offers a unique opportunity to shape a vital sector of the Indian economy. As the lead for tourism initiatives, you will:
Influence policy and industry trends at a national level
Work with top-tier professionals, government stakeholders, and global experts
Drive meaningful economic and social impact through job creation and cultural exchange
If this aligns with your expertise or you know someone who would be a great fit, apply now or write to vishal@theconvergencefoundation.org or share this opportunity!