Haslemere Travel MD named AITO Agents chair

Haslemere Travel’s managing director Gemma Antrobus has been named as the new chair of AITO Agents.

Antrobus is the association’s first female chair and takes over from Oliver Broad who stepped down from the role at its overseas conference in Prague this week.

Kirker Holidays’ Ted Wake will continue to act at deputy chairman.

“It’s an honour and a pleasure to be taking over from Oliver as AITO Specialist Travel Agents’ Chairperson. Some fantastic foundations have been laid over the past four years under Oliver’s leadership and I look forward to building upon those for the benefit of our agent members,” said Antrobus.

She said a number of ‘new projects’ will follow after a long-term strategic review that will focus on promoting the AITO brand.

Antrobus added: “It is important that consumers understand and appreciate the values of booking with an AITO Agent, and brand awareness is a huge part of this.We’re all excited about the next stage of development for AITO Specialist Travel Agents. The panel and I (four agents and four AITO operators) will ensure that the organisation remains the leading group of independent agents and the very first source of expert advice for UK’s most discerning travellers.”

Broad said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed the last six years being involved with the AITO Agents’ panel, four of which were as AITO Agents’ chairman.

“I am delighted that Gemma is taking on the role. She has a wealth of knowledge, is extremely enthusiastic and is very well-connected in the industry. I have no doubt that she will lead the group well, as it continues to modernise and develop further.

“To me, AITO Agents is still one of the most unique ‘families’ of companies. I look forward to being a supportive member of the organisation’s future projects and being as active as I possibly can over the next few year.”