Darren Rudd leaving AFTA for personal reasons.
The Australian Federation of Travel Agents has just announced the departure of its Chief Executive Officer, Darren Rudd, after less than a year in the role.
AFTA Chairman, Tom Manwaring from Express Travel Group, will take on the role of Executive Chair.
“Darren’s time in the CEO’s role covers one of the most challenging periods for the organisation, our members and the wider tourism sector ever,” Manwaring said.
“The AFTA Board wish to thank Darren for his contribution during this very difficult time but we understand and respect that this is the right decision for Darren. We thank Darren for his contribution to AFTA and our members during his time as CEO and wish him all the best,” he added.
Rudd said he was incredibly proud of what the organisation had achieved over the last year, given the significant financial constraints in place and the multiple, ongoing challenges of COVID.
“During my time as CEO AFTA successfully secured a total of $258 million in tailored support through the Federal Government’s COVID Consumer Travel Support Program, and together with our members we made sure that the plight of travel agents and businesses and the need for support was understood at every level of government.
“It has been an honour to lead this organisation during this period and a privilege to work with AFTA’s members, the team and the Board,” he said.
More details in Travel Daily next week.