Aito has announced its new executive director, who will start the role in early March.
Martyn Sumners, who ran the Association of British Travel Organisers to France (Abtof) for seven years until 2013, will replace Kate Kenward – who is leaving the role.
Summers has since worked as an event management consultant and a corporate training provider specialising in business negotiation skills for large corporate organisations.
Derek Moore, chairman of Aito, The Specialist Travel Association, said: “We had a number of strong contenders for the role of executive director, but Martyn Sumners’ previous experience with Abtof meant that he understood Aito’s requirements as a consumer-facing travel trade association particularly well.
“He’s also worked for Aito member companies in the past, including Keycamp and Serenity Holidays, which gives him a rounded perspective from the member side of the fence, which we see as a key added bonus.
“Martyn will be coming on board with Aito as soon as possible, in early March, shortly before Kate Kenward’s departure.”
Kenwood announced her departure in December. She has held the role for ten years.
Aito hopes Sumners will be introduced to members at its February 27 annual general meeting.
Moore added: “In the meantime, a management committee – John Tangney, Chris Rowles and I – with the back-up of our experienced AITO HQ team of Bharat Gadhoke, Pam Hersey, Yvonne Kinder, Sunny Singh and Tom Doyle, will keep things moving forward smoothly as we plan the forthcoming year and assist our members to face the challenges of Brexit.”
