Published: 2nd January 2025

Celebrating receiving a MBE for Outstanding Contribution to Northern Ireland’s Tourism Industry

KerrieSweeney1

Celebrating receiving a MBE for Outstanding Contribution to Northern Ireland’s Tourism Industry

Congratulations to our Chief Executive, Kerrie Sweeney, who has been awarded an MBE in the New Year’s Honours list, for her exceptional contributions to maritime heritage and the tourism industry in Northern Ireland.

Kerrie has over twenty-five years’ experience of working in the tourism sector. This includes ten years between Belfast City Council and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, where she was a member of the team that put together the plans for the Titanic Signature Project. As Chief Executive of Maritime Belfast Trust, owners of the Titanic Belfast visitor attraction, Kerrie has played a pivotal role in shaping Belfast’s tourism landscape. Titanic Belfast has become an international icon, welcoming over 8 million visitors and generating an economic impact of £430 million.

Kerrie has also been involved in major projects such as the restoration of the Harland & Wolff Drawing Offices now Titanic Hotel Belfast, the ongoing conservation of SS Nomadic, and led the development of the Maritime Mile. Her innovation and determined dedication have reshaped how Belfast’s maritime heritage is preserved and presented, ensuring it remains a key part of Belfast’s historic waterfront’s future.

On receiving her MBE, Kerrie shared ‘I’ve had the privilege to be involved in some truly amazing projects that have driven and supported tourism growth in Belfast and Northern Ireland across three decades. This has involved collaborating with great partners and working with many exceptional people. I’m delighted to receive an MBE not only in recognition of my contribution but the wider work of so many in preserving and promoting Belfast’s remarkable maritime heritage’.

Kerrie’s commitment to excellence and passion for Belfast’s future continue to inspire us. Here’s to many more years of success and innovation!