Former Tourism Australia CMO Nick Baker has finally revealed the next step in his illustrious career, arriving at RedBalloon as its newly-appointed CEO.
Baker joins RedBalloon after seven successful years at Tourism Australia, during which time he and his team were responsible for three of Tourism Australia’s most prominent global campaigns, the implementation of an effective social media marketing strategy and bringing Oprah Winfrey to Australia.
As CEO, Baker will focus on further expanding RedBalloon’s customer and merchant base, as well as exploring new markets – particularly the growing tourism market.
He takes up his new position on 16 March, replacing current CEO, Kristie Buchanan, who is leaving to start a family. Baker is also in the process of recruiting a new head of marketing.
“I considered a lot of interesting roles after Tourism Australia, but RedBalloon was the one that I could not turn down,” he said.
“The company ethos – recognition of its employees as the key to its success – and customer experience as its main purpose played a significant part in my decision. At RedBalloon there is a definite sense of people being part of something bigger than themselves, and I am really excited about leading and working with its fantastic tea,” Baker added.
RedBalloon also welcomes a new chair, former Tourism Australia managing director, Ken Boundy. Boundy is currently chair of the Royal Botanic Gardens & Domain Trust.
RedBalloon offers more than 3000 unique experiences from more than 1000 providers across Australia and New Zealand. It is jointly-owned by Naomi Simson and Peter Simson, who both sit on the board as non-executive directors.
Baker fits a recent trend which sees marketing chiefs appointed into senior leadership roles. Myer recently appointed chief merchandising and marketing director Daniel Bracken, as deputy CEO.
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