NY Tourism Team for Island Embraces Remote Work Transformation

The Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA) is transitioning its New York office to remote work, effective January 16, 2026. This decision is part of a broader strategic initiative aimed at enhancing operational flexibility and resilience. The office, located on the twelfth floor of 675 Third Avenue in Manhattan, will no longer operate in response to changing organizational needs.

Background of the New York Office

The BTA has maintained a tourism presence in New York for decades. In the 1980s, the former Department of Tourism was located at 310 Madison Avenue. It moved to 205 East 42nd Street in 1998 and eventually transitioned to its current location on Third Avenue, becoming the BTA’s base since its establishment in 2014.

Reasons for Remote Work Transition

• The building at 675 Third Avenue has been sold for residential use.
• Erin Wright, acting chief executive, emphasized the importance of creating a modern, flexible operating model.
• Former BTA CEO Charles Jeffers II welcomed the change, calling the physical office unnecessary.

Erin Wright noted that the timing aligned with the BTA’s long-term objectives. This transition aims to continue delivering quality services while enhancing the organization’s adaptability to market demands.

Staff and Budget Considerations

As of 2020, the New York office employed 19 staff members. By August 2024, an organizational chart indicated there were 12 posts, one of which was vacant. The BTA has yet to clarify how many employees will be affected by this transition.

• Budget revisions have seen the BTA’s grant decrease from an original estimate of $16.54 million to $15.5 million for 2025-26.

Transition to remote work will begin on December 15, 2025, allowing employees to adapt efficiently. The BTA insists this move will not disrupt its engagement and operations within the U.S. market.

Community Reactions

Dwayne Robinson, Shadow Minister of Tourism, expressed support for the rationale behind the remote work shift but raised concerns about potential budgetary motives. He questioned the timing of such changes in relation to the appointment of a new permanent CEO.

As the BTA prepares for its next chapter, this strategic shift marks an important milestone in its operations.