Fiordland tourism giant RealNZ has appointed a chief marketing and digital officer.

Scott McNab takes up the new position at the company, recently rebranded from Wayfare, next month.

RealNZ has Real Journeys, Te Anau Glowworm Caves Experiences, Cardrona Alpine Resort, Go Orange and other tourism businesses in its stable.

McNab has been at Icebreaker for 11 years, including four years as general manager (NZ & Australia), and most recently as global director responsible for the success of Icebreaker’s retail and digital strategy. Prior to that, he held senior wholesale and sales roles.

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RealNZ CEO Stephen England-Hall says: "Scott brings extensive digital knowledge, is renowned for his team building and will play a key role in the group’s recovery from COVID-19."

McNab is originally from the Catlins, went to Dunedin University (has a Bachelor of Science) and his wife Steph, is from Alexandra. He says he is pleased to be making the move from Auckland back down south for both personal and professional reasons.

"This is an exciting time to join the tourism industry – when things are really tough," NcNab says.

"The current challenges and consumers’ behavioural shift in a more digital world, make the ideal climate to review key strategic choices and accelerate innovation.

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"Place the right bets and we can emerge from COVID-19 an even stronger business."

Real Journeys was founded in 1954 by Les and Lady Olive Hutchins, who bought the Manapouri-Doubtful Sound Tourist Company and began sharing the spectacular wilderness of Fiordland with the world. The company continues to run cruises through Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound.