Nominations are now open for a position on the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) Committee.
The opening follows the decision of long-serving CATO Director James O’Donnell (above) to step down effective July 31.
James has served as a CATO Director for five years and played an important role in the organisation’s evolution, including its successful integration into the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) on July 1.
Following his recent departure from The Travel Corporation (TTC), James has chosen to step aside from the Committee to ensure the position continues to be held by someone actively engaged in the day -to-day operations of Australia’s touring and wholesale sector.
“It has been an enormous privilege to serve as a CATO Director over the past five years,” said James.
“I have valued the opportunity to work alongside such a committed and passionate group of tour operators and wholesalers, and I am particularly proud to have contributed to the successful integration of CATO and ATIA.
“This is certainly not goodbye. The work of the CATO Committee is more important than ever and I remain deeply committed to the touring and travel industry.
“Once I am established in the next chapter of my career, I hope there will be an opportunity to contribute again. Travel is where I belong and I don’t expect to be away for long.”
The CATO Committee provides strategic leadership for Australia’s touring and wholesale sector, working closely with the ATIA Board to advance advocacy, foster industry collaboration and deliver value for members.
The Committee is chaired by Sean Martin, who also represents CATO on the ATIA Board.
“James has made a significant contribution to CATO over the past five years,” said Mr Martin.
“He has brought sound judgement, integrity and genuine commitment to the Board and now Committee, particularly throughout the important process of integrating CATO into ATIA.
“While we are sorry to see James step down, we respect his decision and appreciate his belief that the Committee should continue to be represented by people who are actively engaged in the sector.
“This vacancy presents an excellent opportunity for a passionate and experienced industry leader to help shape CATO’s future, contribute to our advocacy priorities and represent the interests of Australia’s touring and wholesale community.”
