Manny Papadoulis is a respected tourism strategist, business leader, and experienced board director with more than 40 years’ experience across Australia’s tourism and visitor economy.
He is Executive Director of Icon Tourism Consulting, specialising in tourism strategy, destination development, regional development and industry advisory services. Over his career, Manny has advised governments, tourism organisations and private-sector operators across Australia on tourism growth, investment, destination development, and industry innovation.
Manny has extensive board and governance experience. He served for almost a decade as a Commissioner of Tourism Western Australia, including as Deputy Chair, contributing to the strategic direction and governance of the State’s tourism organisation. He has also served as President of the Tourism Council WA, Deputy Chair of the Perth Convention Bureau, President of the Australian Tourism Export Council (WA) and Chair of Australia’s Coral Coast tourism region.
Manny was among the pioneers of Western Australia’s modern tourism industry. For 20 years, he led his family’s award-winning touring company, showcasing Western Australia to domestic and international visitors and contributing to the development and promotion of many of the State’s leading tourism experiences.
Beyond tourism, Manny previously served as a Director of the Western Australian Symphony Orchestra, where he chaired the Marketing Sub-Committee and contributed to the organisation’s evolution into an independent, stand-alone orchestra.
He remains actively involved in mentoring and advising tourism businesses and emerging industry leaders, with a particular interest in innovation, governance, and the application of new technologies, including artificial intelligence, across the visitor economy.
Manny brings to the NADC Board extensive experience in governance, community and stakeholder engagement, and a deep understanding of the role that tourism, culture and storytelling play in shaping Australia’s national identity.