Name: Haim Gutin
Title: Commissioner, North and South America
Company, city: Israel Ministry of Tourism; New York, N.Y.
Number of employees: 60 in the United States
Recent project: Every day we manage multiple initiatives. Recent efforts include a targeted media campaign to the Christian market, online training programs for travel agents, and the coordination of media visits, conferences, seminars and trade shows.
First job: As a student I worked as a security guard and paramedic.
Little-known fact about you: I have practiced martial arts and enjoy playing soccer.
Your Business
Essential business philosophy: Working within a government agency requires bridging the gap between bureaucracy and the private sector. I believe in giving people the autonomy to do their work and judging them by results rather than process. Every experience offers a lesson.
Best way to keep a competitive edge: Avoid shortcuts. Understand each task thoroughly, prepare in advance and respect the capabilities of both projects and people. Know your weaknesses and remain consistent in your strategic approach.
Yardstick of success: Measure success by the positive outcomes you create and by the morale of your team. If the people I work with are satisfied and motivated, I consider that success.
Haim Gutin as a Traveler
What is the most important item you take when traveling? A good book, music and an iPad.
How do you spend your time on board? I read and listen to music. Travel time is an opportunity for reflection on past projects and future plans. When traveling with colleagues, I value conversation as a way to build relationships and better understand one another.
What is your favorite restaurant in the world? Café Pushkin in Moscow — its flavors remind me of my mother’s cooking.
What is your favorite destination in the world? For relaxation I prefer the Bahamas or Bermuda. For history and culture I favor destinations across Europe, Asia and South America.
About Israel Ministry of Tourism
What can luxury travelers expect from a trip to Israel? Israel offers more than shopping or leisure; it provides immersive experiences that engage the mind and spirit. Visitors often describe a palpable energy in the air—regardless of faith, many feel a deep spiritual resonance. Jerusalem is synonymous with history and reflection, while Tel Aviv is known for vibrant nightlife and leisure. The country presents vivid, memorable experiences across diverse landscapes and cultures. For luxury travelers, international hotel brands are increasingly present, such as the new Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem and a Kempinski in Tel Aviv, adding enhanced comfort and service options.
What initiatives are in place in Israel to attract business travel? Israel’s thriving industries—technology, agriculture, medicine and security—draw professionals who come to learn and collaborate. While Israel is not solely a business-travel destination, it offers strong incentives for corporate visitors: a reliable transportation network, clear signage and widespread English usage make business travel straightforward. The country’s multicultural society, where different communities coexist respectfully, also creates a welcoming environment for conferences, educational visits and corporate programs.
What is the most challenging aspect of attracting North American travelers to Israel? One key challenge is reshaping perceptions. Many North Americans hold outdated or inaccurate views about safety and daily life in Israel. In reality, Israel is a secure and normal travel destination with low crime rates. Visitor numbers continue to grow—our aim is to reach new milestones—and a large share of travelers are repeat visitors. We hope those who experience Israel will share their perspectives and encourage others to visit.