close
close
orange

Will PATA have a future in travel and tourism leadership?

Vaseline

PATA’s last CEO, Singapore-born Liz Ortiguera, was apparently asked to resign from PATA and left for a new position at WTTC. Current Malaysian CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid is trying to clean up what some say is ‘a mess’. Hamid took over the reins of PATA in Bangkok in September last year and is doing his best, but is struggling to catch up.

The re-election of Peter Semone as chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) board of directors fuels a frustrated board member’s desire to contact eTurboNews with a public letter.

eTurboNews publishes this letter and comments are welcome.

Concerns over the recent election results of the PATA chairman

I wanted to discuss some worrying developments following the recent PATA Chairman election results.

It is with a heavy heart that I express my concerns regarding the re-election of Mr. Peter Semone as Chairman. While it is commendable to recognize the achievements he has made during his tenure, it is equally important to shed light on the challenges and shortcomings faced by the organization under his leadership.

Despite the assurance of regained financial stability, management strength and visionary direction, reality paints a different picture. Declining membership, staggering employee turnover that particularly affects female employees, allegations of misconduct including intimidation and bullying, and rumors of questionable consulting contracts linked to the chair have plagued our organization.

The lack of transparency reminiscent of certain political governments only adds to these concerns. The withholding of crucial information from the board and members, including the sudden departure of the former CEO and subsequent silence about the circumstances, are troubling signs of board opacity.

As a board member, I am deeply discouraged by the recent election results and fears for the future of the organization. It is clear that PATA no longer upholds the values ​​of transparency, integrity and accountability that were once its cornerstone. In light of these developments, I will advocate for the termination of our membership.

I sincerely hope that these issues are addressed quickly and decisively to preserve PATA’s legacy and relevance in the global travel community.

  • While it is commendable to recognize the achievements he has made during his tenure, it is equally important to shed light on the challenges and shortcomings faced by the organization under his leadership.
  • The withholding of crucial information from the board and members, including the sudden departure of the former CEO and subsequent silence about the circumstances, are troubling signs of board opacity.
  • The re-election of Peter Semone as chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) board of directors fuels a frustrated board member’s desire to contact eTurboNews with a public letter.

Related Posts