Abta announces Ailsa Pollard as new chair

The Abta board of directors has elected Ailsa Pollard as the association’s new chair.

She takes up the position with immediate effect, succeeding Alistair Rowland of Blue Bay Travel, who is stepping down from the board after serving his maximum term.

Pollard first joined the Abta board in April 2022 and is a non-executive director on the board of Blossom Topco Ltd, the ultimate parent company of Abta member Newmarket Holidays. 

Previously, she was chief executive of the dnata Travel Group, UK and Europe, and has also been a senior vice-president at Emirates Holidays.

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Pollard said: “I’m thrilled to be stepping into the role of chair and to be working with the board, Mark Tanzer and his team to build on Abta’s long-standing reputation, supporting members’ interests, and promoting professionalism and consumer confidence as the industry landscape continually evolves.

“This is both an exciting and challenging time for our sector and Abta will continue be at the forefront, playing a leading role in our industry and speaking up for all members.”

Tanzer added: “I am delighted to welcome Ailsa as the new Abta chair. Since joining the Abta board, Ailsa has made a very strong contribution to the discussions around the table, and her experience of a range of travel businesses is extremely valuable.

“I, and the rest of the Abta team, look forward to working with Ailsa to help our members meet the challenges that lie ahead, and to help them grow successful businesses.

“I would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to outgoing chairman Alistair Rowland for the significant contribution he has made to Abta throughout his six years in office.”

On Thursday (January 9) Barrhead Travel Group managing director Nicki Tempest-Mitchell was appointed to the board.

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