Brand USA has announced Elaine Patton as its new Travel Trade Manager for Australia and New Zealand – strengthening its place as the DMO continues to grow in the travel market.
Patton brings more than 15 years of industry experience to the role, having previously held positions in event and project management, as well as sales, at WasteMINZ, American Airlines, and Air New Zealand.
Suzy Shepard, Director of Global Trade Development for the Asia Pacific region at Brand USA, acknowledged the contribution Patton has already made to the team.
“We’re excited to welcome Elaine to the Brand USA family. We recognise her expertise and successful management skills and we’re keen for her to join the team,” she said.
The USA remains the number one long-haul destination for Australian and New Zealand travellers.
Patton has been involved with Brand USA since 2022, contributing to events such as the Brand USA Auckland 2023 MegaFam in June of that year.
The position plays a large part in strengthening Brand USA’s in-market activity in 2024. It’s a part-time role and will be based in Auckland.
Patton’s first project under her new appointment was the highly anticipated SXSW Sydney Trade event held on Thursday 19 October at the Pumphouse Sydney.
