The head of a South Shore resort is set to leave his post by November 1.

Sonesta Beach Resort president and director Joseph Violi will return to the US once a replacement for his position at the property is found.

But the move is not connected with a better offer elsewhere or bad feelings about the Island's position in the tourism industry, he stressed yesterday.

He told The Royal Gazette : "I have decided to leave. I am not leaving for a specific job.

"For my personal and professional growth I feel it is best to continue my life in the United States. I miss my family and friends and the environment I grew up in.

"I plan to stay here throughout the season and give the owners as much time as possible for selecting a replacement.'' Mr. Violi said he has enjoyed his time here.

"It has been a fabulous challenge. We have achieved a lot here in the last two years thanks to a great team and great employees.

"The staff of this hotel have done a fantastic job. I am very proud to have been associated with them over the last few years.'' He noted that even though the market had not grown locally, Sonesta had been able to garner a greater share of the available pie.

This indicated its sales and marketing efforts were working while guests' comments showed the quality of the product and service the hotel and staff were offering had improved.

Mr. Violi noted there was "still a long way to go''.

The process to select a replacement for Mr. Violi has not yet started and Sonesta International Hotels president Jackie Sonnabend will be on the Island next week.