Hotel Association Pays Tribute To Toby Dillas
The Bermuda Hotel Association [BHA] and Hotel Employers of Bermuda, as well as their industry partners, said they were “shocked and saddened” to learn of the passing of one of Bermuda’s icons in the hotel industry, Mr. R. Toby Dillas.
A spokesperson said, “Toby was a consummate professional who devoted many years to both promoting and working in the hotel industry, and was always at the forefront of ensuring that our visitors received the highest standards of service and were treated to our unique and world recognized Bermudian hospitality.
“He was the mentor of many young Bermudians who went on to enjoy very successful and rewarding careers in the hotel and hospitality industry.
“We have lost a true ambassador of Bermuda, and it is comforting to know that he has left an indelible mark on both the hotel and tourism industries through his hard work and dedication over his many years of unwavering service.
“On behalf of his many friends and associates in the Bermuda Hotel Association, we extend our heartfelt sympathy to his wife, Lauren and his family.”
Toby was the consumate Tourism executive.He learned from the bottom up and held many positions in hotels before becoming the Hotel Manager at the Bermudiana Hotel. His move to the BDOT was welcomed by many hoteliers as he brought a true understanding of what it took to fill a hotel room; his understanding of the market and the corresponding distribution channels, connected the dots for the BDOT staff. His first hand understanding of what it truly meant to provide first class service and how that affects repeat business was invaluable to those had not lived the experience.
Toby was loved and respected by travel professionals and he will be missed.
BDA needs more people like the late Toby Dillas to try and resurrect it’s dying tourism business!! But in his “era” it was a different ballgame!!