"A bit weird": David Koch's new career move
Former Sunrise co-host David Koch has revealed a new career move a year after resigning from the breakfast TV show.
On Thursday, Koch was announced as the new chair of the South Australian Tourism Commission, the peak body promoting tourism to SA.
Koch is replacing Andrew Bullock, who has been the chair of the commission since 2019.
“A passionate South Australian and media professional, Kochie is a leading advocate for small business and a high-profile finance commentator,” the SATC said in a statement.
Koch, who was born in Adelaide but has been living in Sydney, said he won't be moving back to SA for the role.
Some South Australians questioned his high-profile appointment, as they believe that a local should've been chosen for the job.
"It's a little bit weird that he doesn't live in SA - that he's not living here but being the head of it," one said.
"It would be nice to have someone embedded in SA, living in SA, part of the community in SA as well," another added.
However, Premier Peter Malinauskas has defended the decision, citing Koch's national profile and financial expertise as a valuable aspect in advertising smaller businesses in the tourism sector.
"We as a state have punched above our weight in regards to tourism and hospitality but there is a lot more growth to be had," Malinauskas said.
As the chair, Koch will work alongside the SATC board to “set the strategic agenda for the commission”.
He will hold the role for three years from July 2.
“We do the best food and wine in the nation, and we have some of the nation’s most spectacular regions,” he said after his new role was announced.
“We also retain a reputation for delivering first class major events and festivals.
“More recently, the perceptions of Adelaide and South Australia have shifted significantly on the east coast – and we have an opportunity to capitalise on this momentum to grow our tourism sector even further.”
Image: Nine