Gary Byrne Email & Phone Number

County Kildare, Ireland

Ireland

As the Global Tour and Experiences Director at Mint Julep Experiences, I am leading the expansion of our brand into international markets, spearheading the launch of Ireland Whiskey Tours. In this role, I am responsible for developing and managing our unique whiskey-focused experiences across Ireland. Additionally, I promote our acclaimed tour offerings in Kentucky and Tennessee to the UK and Irish travel trade, forging strategic partnerships and driving growth across key markets. My focus is on creating unforgettable, immersive travel experiences that showcase the best of whiskey tourism, culture, and hospitality.

Dublin City, County Dublin, Ireland

I successfully completed an 11-month fixed-term contract with Failte Ireland, I served as a Product Development Officer on the Activities Team, working exclusively in Greenway Development and Cycling Tourism Projects. My responsibilities included overseeing key aspects such as Interpretation, Wayfinding, and Orientation plans for Greenways. In collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, including local authorities and various Irish government agencies, I played a pivotal role in developing and maximising the tourism potential around Greenways in Ireland.Beyond this, I spearheaded projects such as the delivery of the Greenway & Blueways best practice toolkit, Greenway Naming initiatives, and took charge of the coordination and execution of the 2-day Failte Ireland Greenway Conference. Leading a comprehensive program of stakeholder engagement, I successfully managed consultations and collaborated with appointed consultants, government departments, state agencies, and strategic partners.My tenure at Failte Ireland was marked by proactive project management, ensuring the seamless execution of initiatives that not only contributed to the development of Greenways but also fostered stronger ties with key entities in the tourism ecosystem.Some of the key competencies I demonstrated during my time at Failte IncludeStakeholder Management & Stakeholder Engagement Project ManagementManaging Relationships Delivering ResultsPerformance Through People Personal EffectivenessCommercial Development

Ireland

In my 5.5 years as the VIP Trade Media Manager at Brown Forman Corporation's Slane Whiskey Distillery, I played a crucial role in launching the Homeplace Visitor Center .Collaborating closely with the Conyngham family of Slane Castle and Rock Farm Slane, I managed diverse responsibilities, including business development, growing awareness, and enhancing visitor experiences at the whiskey distillery in alignment with the broader Slane Castle Estate and Ireland's Ancient East tourism proposition.My duties extended to curating luxury Slane Irish Whiskey brand experiences for VIPs and high-profile visitors, ranging from politicians and diplomats to senior executives in Brown Forman, international journalists, musicians, bartenders, bar owners, whiskey societies, and luxury incentive groups. I facilitated premium visitor experiences, incentive trips, conferences, and VIP events.In a strategic capacity, I led the development of our business strategy, project-managed PR plans, and served as a duty manager, contributing to day-to-day operations. I played a vital role in creating diverse and sellable public experiences, including offerings for the ultra-luxury segment.Key achievements include establishing the visitor center, recruiting a skilled team, and managing events, from VIP parties at concerts to Distillery launches, Hot Press Music Collaborations, whiskey product launches, and the PUCA Halloween festival. I contributed to the development of Slane Castle Estate's tourism strategy in collaboration with Failte Ireland and Boyne Valley Tourism.My leadership increased the annual visitor count by fostering brand advocacy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, as Chairperson of the Irish Whiskey Association Tourism Committee, I launched impactful initiatives like the IrishWhiskey360° Passport and Slane Púca Festival, responding effectively to challenges.

County Dublin, Ireland

As the elected Chairperson of the Irish Whiskey Association Tourism Committee, I played a pivotal role in advancing the interests of our members, which included the brand homes of numerous whiskey distilleries across Ireland. In close collaboration with the Director of the Irish Whiskey Association in IBEC, I led strategic initiatives to promote and develop Irish Whiskey Tourism, Irish Whiskey 360, and championed the cause of all whiskey distilleries and brand homes throughout the island.My leadership was particularly tested during the pandemic when I chaired the committee amidst prolonged closures and a severe collapse in visitor numbers across the industry. Despite these challenges, I demonstrated resilience and strategic vision, providing support to our members during a period of unprecedented adversity.In my capacity as Chair, I successfully orchestrated a comprehensive program of consultation with members, engaging in forward-thinking discussions on future planning. I took the lead in overseeing the development of strategic initiatives in partnership with the association executive, fostering a collaborative approach to address industry challenges.During my tenure, I spearheaded specific initiatives with third-party stakeholders, enhancing partnerships and reinforcing the committee's influential role within the Irish whiskey landscape. My leadership style proved to be effective, earning me respect and recognition as a authoritative Chair of the Committee.I am proud to have contributed significantly to the promotion and development of Irish Whiskey Tourism, Irish Whiskey 360, and the resilience of whiskey distilleries and brand homes throughout Ireland, especially during times of unprecedented challenges.

Meath, Ireland

During my time as the VIP/Trade/Media Manager at Slane Whiskey Distillery, I actively embraced an additional voluntary role as a Director at Boyne Valley Tourism. Situated in the heart of Ireland's Ancient East, the Boyne Valley is a region steeped in cultural and historical richness, boasting landmarks such as Bru na Boinne, a UNESCO World Heritage site.Over my three-year term on the Board of Directors, I made a significant and positive impact. My voluntary role included actively contributing to the strategic initiatives and annual marketing activities of Boyne Valley Tourism. Through collaborative efforts with the Board, I played a pivotal role in achieving the shared objectives of enhancing the region's visibility and attracting more visitors.My commitment to fostering the growth of this culturally significant destination aligns with my dedication to promoting and showcasing the unique heritage of the Boyne Valley. This dual role allowed me to leverage my expertise in VIP management and media relations to contribute meaningfully to the broader tourism landscape, reinforcing the Boyne Valley's position as a must-visit destination within Ireland's Ancient East.

Dublin, Leinster, Ireland

During my tenure as Groups & Product Manager at Sunway Travel, Ireland's largest family-owned tour operator with a rich 60-year history, I played a pivotal role spanning both leisure and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Corporate, Events) divisions. Sunway offers leisure holidays for Irish holidaymakers worldwide and owns Priority Luxury Incentive & Group Travel, specialising in luxury incentive experiences globally.In my role, I was instrumental in creating and managing new products, including hotels and experiences in diverse destinations, ensuring their marketability for public holiday bookings. I forged partnerships with B2B operators in resorts, collaborating on the development of experiences and products with hotels. Additionally, I oversaw the recruitment and management of in-resort holiday representatives to guarantee our clients a superior experience.On the MICE side, I managed a global portfolio of travel destinations, crafting imaginative incentive programs. This involved sourcing properties, destinations, DMCs, and event production companies, overseeing the entire booking process encompassing operations, event management, product development, and contracting.Key professional achievements include:• Spearheaded and coordinated all activities in the luxury travel segment for Sunway.• Developed and led the luxury tourism business development strategy, actively participating in travel events both in Ireland and abroad.• Key Account Management of VIP Clients and Corporate Business.In the realm of luxury incentives, I successfully tendered for a contract to organize a luxury incentive group to the French Riviera for 120 participants, including chartering an aircraft, managing the entire experience from conception to completion. I also pitched proposals that contributed to a remarkable 10% increase in business revenue, showcasing my strategic prowess and ability to deliver exceptional results in the MICE sector.

Ireland

In 2008, I achieved certification as a Failte Ireland Approved National Tour Guide of Ireland, embarking on a journey that has allowed me to curate and guide bespoke tours and experiences for individuals and groups worldwide. With a mini-bus license and a chauffeur driver license, I seamlessly transition between guiding on coaches and driving tours, offering a versatile and personalised approach. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of escorting diverse groups, from politicians to actors, individuals with high net worth, and regular holidaymakers from destinations like the USA and Canada. Collaborating with various tour operators in Ireland, Failte Ireland, and Tourism Ireland, I've had the opportunity to showcase the very best of Ireland's rich heritage, culture, and hospitality. My commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and highlighting the unique charm of Ireland has been a consistent thread in my role as a National Tour Guide.

During my 8-month contract with Aereps Travel Management, I served as the Account Manager in Ireland for the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority (LVCVA). In this capacity, my primary responsibility was to advance initiatives aimed at boosting international leisure and business tourism to the renowned entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas.As the Account Manager, I took charge of sales, marketing, and branding for leisure groups and MICE markets across Ireland. My role encompassed developing a comprehensive Sales and Marketing plan, fostering awareness of conventions, special events, and tourism attractions, positioning Las Vegas as a premier travel destination. Notably, during my tenure, I visited Las Vegas and actively participated in the annual sales mission. Here, I presented and provided a market update on Ireland to key stakeholders, including influential entities like the MGM Group and Caesars Entertainment.Key professional achievements in this role include:- Orchestrating a press trip to capture the iconic 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas' sign turning green for Saint Patrick’s Day, with the unveiling conducted by TV3 presenter, Sybil Mulcahy.- Planning the itinerary for Derek Mooney's feature on Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon for RTÉ Radio One.- Successfully launching a seasonal direct flight from Belfast to Las Vegas, further enhancing accessibility and connectivity to this vibrant travel destination.

Postgraduate Certificate ( Level 9), Brewing & Distilling

- Science of Brewing & Distilling - Innovation & Entrepreneurship - Food & Beverage Product Development - Brewing & Distilling Work Practice

Hospitality Management, Bachelors Degree

- Hospitality Law - Strategic Hospitality Operations Management - Revenue Management - Financial Planning & Control - Digital - Industry.

Business Studies Diploma, Quinn School Of Business

- Marketing - Economics - Accounting - Business Law - Business Environment - Principles of Management

Tourism Marketing

- Tourism Management & Marketing Principles - Culture & Heritage Management - Innovation & Creativity in Tourism - Tour Operating

Level 2 Spirits, Spirits, Pass With Distinction

Level 2 Spirits - Pass with Distinction - Raw Materials - Alcoholic fermentation - Distillation - Post Distillation Operations

Certified Bourbon Steward, Pass

Activities and Societies: Certfied Bourbon Steward and the first Irish based member of the esteemed Stave& Thief Bourbon Society.

National Tour Guide Of Ireland

In 2008, I achieved certification as a Failte Ireland Approved National Tour Guide of Ireland, embarking on a journey that has allowed me.