Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree (TPDD) have appointed from within, naming the organisation's business development executive, Tara Bennett as the marketing body's executive officer.

Ms Bennett joined TPDD in 2007 and will take on the top job full time on May 28.

She replaces inaugural executive officer, Doug Ryan, who joined TPDD in 2006.

Mr Ryan said his successor was an 'excellent appointment'. 

"I think it's a great choice, she's got a great knowledge of the region and how we operate," he said of Ms Bennett. 

"She has built great relationships within the industry and she'll be fantastic in the role."

Ms Bennett said she was 'thrilled' to start in her new role but had little time to celebrate with her main focus on encouraging visitors to the region for the Easter break. 

TPDD are campaigning to keep tourists coming to the region in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Ita.

Almost all tourism operators in the region were open for business with the industry well prepared for significant weather events, Mr Ryan said.

"Easter is looking like it's going to being fantastic. Hopefully people aren't changing their minds and keep coming up because the weather is spectacular at the moment," he said. 

"There's certainly been some drop off but the weather's cleared very quickly and the town is back into full gear. 

"I'm quite sure that any tourist will enjoy what they see."

As Executive Officer, Ms Bennett said her main priorities will be to create stronger links within the business community and to secure long-term funding for TPDD from the Douglas Shire Council. 

Developing and lobbying for new infrastructure in the region will also be part of her role. 

"We'll certainly work alongside the Douglas Chamber of Commerce to enhance the business environment here and the big infrastructure we've recognised is needed but TPDD will be focused firmly on marketing the destination," Ms Bennett said.  

Ms Bennett has previously worked in other hospitality service and management roles, achieving a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Deakin University and a Master of Tourism (Ecotourism) degree from James Cook University.

A hand over period will start on May 5 with Mr Ryan providing support through till his official retirement date of June 30.