Michael Buble
Michael Buble

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CATO releases full program of speakers, sponsors for crisis and risk conference 

The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) has unveiled the full list of speakers for its Crisis, Risk and Resilience Conference. 

The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) has unveiled the full list of speakers for its Crisis, Risk and Resilience Conference. 

Taking place at Novotel Sydney Central on 15 May 2023, the conference gives guests the opportunity to learn more about mitigating risks and navigating potential crises in their businesses. And its program of speakers knows more than a thing or two about these topics. 

Carefully considered, the speakers bring experience from a range of sectors across the travel industry. 

CHad Carey
Chimu Adventure’s Chad Carey

The speakers include:

  • Chad Carey (Managing Director, Chimu Adventures) who will show how travel businesses must be prepared for the unexpected during a crisis.
  • Aaron Zoanetti (Partner & Travel Law Specialist, Pointon Partners and CATO Board Director) who will cover the topic of legal essentials
  • Brad Kelly (Director, Gow Gates Insurance) who will look at travel risks and the value of assessing your vulnerability
  • Greg Hay (General Manager Operations – Sydney Airport) who will share insights on airport operations and disaster preparation at SYD
  • Nik Devidas (Managing Director, Rock IT) who will cover the important topic of cyber security
  • Allisa O’Connell (Head of People & Culture, Flight Centre Travel Group) who will cover crisis leadership, and the importance of well-prepared teams and effective decision-making.

“We are delighted to confirm Smartraveller and Ebury Partners as our key sponsors of the Crisis, Risk and Resilience Conference, and thank them for their support,” CATO Managing Director Brett Jardine said.

“I would also like to acknowledge all speakers who have committed to this important event for our industry, and looking forward to the learnings we will all share.”

Entire Travel Group's Brad McDonnell
Entire Travel Group’s Brad McDonnell

But wait … there’s more

Elsewhere, Roslyn Ranse (Founder of Travel Agent Achievers) will moderate a panel of experts from across different sectors. 

These industry leaders will share their views on changing landscapes and what the future may hold for each of their areas. These include:

  • Adventure: Lisa Pagotto – Founder, Crooked Compass
  • FIT: Brad McDonnell – Managing Director, Entire Travel Group
  • Touring: Aleisha Fittler – Executive General Manager, Scenic
  • Youth: Sean Martin – Managing Director, GAdventures
  • Student: Jamie Wansey – Managing Director, Student Horizons

International speaker, trainer, author and coach Mark Carter will emcee the event, which will conclude with a Q&A between Mark Carter and CATO Chair Dennis Bunnik and a networking session.

Purchase your tickets for the CATO Crisis, Risk & Resilience Conference here. 

This Friday, CATO will host its World Earth Day lunch at the Calile Hotel in Brisbane. Here are the four travel industry speakers who will take part in the event.