Cuthbert Didier brings over 30 years of distinguished experience in marina and maritime development, tourism, event management, and social causes. With a career spanning various leadership roles, Cuthbert has significantly contributed to the advancement of maritime and tourism sectors in the Caribbean.
In the realm of marina and maritime development, Cuthbert spent 25 years at Rodney Bay Marina, progressing from accountant to CEO/managing director. He served as the IGY Ambassador for the Southern Hemisphere of the Caribbean and as a Maritime Consultant for the Government of Saint Lucia, advising on strategy, policy, and planning for water-based tourism, particularly focusing on yachting. His efforts led to the establishment of the Caribbean Marine Association and numerous international promotions of Saint Lucia as a premier yachting destination. He has also contributed to the development and management of the Soufriere Marine Management Area (SMMA), ensuring sustainable use and conservation of marine resources.
Cuthbert’s expertise in tourism includes providing strategic guidance on land-based and maritime tourism across the Caribbean, with a strong focus on the blue economy. He has undertaken numerous consultancies to assess the impact of the yachting subsector on Eastern Caribbean economies and to analyze tourism taxation. His leadership roles extended to serving on the boards of the Saint Lucia Tourist Board, the Saint Lucia Hotel & Tourism Association Inc., and the Soufriere Marine Management Association.
A veteran in event management, Cuthbert has organized prominent events such as the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers, St. Lucia Jazz Festival, Mercury Beach Event, and Russian Regatta. He chaired the St. Lucia Tourist Board Events Committee, ensuring the successful staging of major events that drew international attention.
In addition to his professional achievements, Cuthbert is passionately committed to social causes. As a founding director and former chairman of the fundraising committee of www.fdcchildren.org, he has focused on early childhood development in the Caribbean. He has also facilitated sports scholarships and educational opportunities for young males through the organization of the Blackheart Football Tournament.
Cuthbert’s extensive consultancy work includes projects with IWEco, Saint Lucia Air and Seaports Authority, and the Saint Lucia Ministry of Tourism. His contributions have led to improved marine pollution controls, enhanced regulatory frameworks for marine activities, and strategic development plans for the yachting sector.
Educationally, Cuthbert holds a BIS in Labour Management from George Mason University, with additional certifications from the University of Pennsylvania – The Wharton School, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and University of Rhode Island.
With a comprehensive background in maritime and tourism sectors, coupled with a dedication to social impact, Cuthbert Didier will bring invaluable insights and experiences as a panel member discussing MPA Improved Management and Effectiveness. His perspectives will be essential in sharing best practices and lessons learned in advancing global conservation targets within the region.
