A place branding expert, whose passion for unifying communities and storytelling has made him a world leader in the field, will be the inaugural CEO of Brand Gold Coast.
The appointment of Todd Babiak, who worked internationally as co-founder of Canadian-based agency Story Engine and most recently spearheaded globally recognised place branding efforts in Tasmania, has been warmly welcomed by Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate
Mayor Tate said developing an authentic brand for our city, ensuring we stood out from the crowd in both the Australian and global marketplace to improve investment and economic development, would take several years and a particular kind of focus.
"Securing Todd, who is recognised as one of the world's foremost place branding practitioners, is a major coup for our city," Mayor Tate said.
"The achievements of Brand Tasmania under his stewardship have been globally recognised with many awards including being crowned the best brand in the world in 2021."
He said an open recruitment process saw dozens of high calibre candidates apply for the position.
Brand Gold Coast Chair Melissa Donnelly said the Board was confident Todd's passion and experience would elevate our city on the global stage where we belong.
"The Board is incredibly excited to work with Todd whose body of work speaks for itself," Ms Donnelly said.
"To secure someone of his experience and esteem will ensure this new entity hits the ground running.
"Place branding is complex and requires buy-in from across our entire community, and Todd knows how to do this."
Mr Babiak said he looked forward to peeling back the layers of the Gold Coast to understand the community and what makes it tick.
"For the past 5 years I have lived and breathed Tasmania, working for the Tasmanian people helping to shift perceptions both from inside and out," Mr Babiak said.
"A powerful and effective brand can be worth billions to a city or state, increasing investment opportunity and economic development.
"I am excited to build a new team and start to uncover, understand and manage the magic in the air in this great city."
