THE International Tourism Trade Fairs Association (ITTFA) recently held its AGM where it elected its new executive committee to lead the association through the coming year.
Tom Nutley, chairman and founder of ITTFA, said: “All appointments were aimed at strengthening the central administration of ITTFA and providing a firm base for the continued growth of the association across cultural and international boundaries.”
ITTFA is dedicated to the continual development of the travel trade show industry, increasing participation and setting high standards worldwide. Recent changes to entry requirements and the annual fee structure mean membership is more accessible to smaller and developing shows, as well as more established ones. This underlines the primary goals of the association as it strives to improve travel trade exhibition standards and help maximise the benefits and levels of professionalism for both visitors and exhibitors.
Maria Badakh, head of sales ITE Group, was elected as president of ITTFA, following her year as vice president. Nutley said: “We are confident that Maria’s experience and enthusiasm will prove to be a great support to the association and help steer it through another successful year. Her specific expertise in working with shows in developing Eastern European markets will be of particular importance as we look at increasing our support for organisers starting up new shows.”
Badakh said: “We hope to continue to broaden our membership base, particularly in the area of support and guidance for new and upcoming shows in less established markets and I personally look forward to welcoming members from all corners of the tourism exhibition world.”
Zeljka Tomljenovic, ITE Group travel division events and sales manager, was elected vice president and will also take on the role of treasurer.
Antonio Dell’Aquilano of TTG Italia Events, who has led the association previously as president, will take up the post of industry consultant and Spela Bratun, project manager Alpe-Adria, Tourism & Leisure Fair, will help support the association via the role of sponsorship officer.