Webjet B2C CEO Katrina Barry is joining the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) board, replacing Shelley Beasley, who will step down as a director after four years.
A member of the AFTA (Australian Federation of Travel Agents) board until March 2022, Barry has over 15 years of experience in tourism, fintech and financial services.
In a statement, ATIA said that Barry’s expertise in the travel industry will support the group in its advocacy for the travel sector.
Meanwhile, Shelley will become the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the new Web Travel Group following the demerger of Webjet, which was approved in a shareholder vote yesterday.
ATIA stated that the board announcement reflects the ongoing evolution of the travel industry and ATIA’s commitment to strong governance. The transition takes effect immediately.
ATIA Chair Christian Hunter congratulated Barry and extended the association’s “deepest gratitude to Shelley Beasley for her incredible service on the ATIA board over four years”.
“Shelley’s contributions, especially during the unprecedented challenges of COVID-19, have been instrumental in guiding our industry through some of its toughest times,” he remarked.
“We are delighted to welcome Katrina Barry to the ATIA board. Katrina’s extensive experience and leadership within the travel and tourism sector will be a tremendous asset to our association as we continue to navigate the complexities of the industry.”
Beasley said it had been “an incredible honour” to serve on the board since 2020.
“Joining in the midst of COVID allowed me to truly appreciate the creativity, resilience and commitment that exists within this industry, and I am filled with pride when reflecting on the way we came together to support each other during this time,” she stated.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to Tom Manwaring for his exceptional leadership as Chair, a role he held for the majority of my time on the board. His leadership and dedication were critical in delivering the positive outcomes that ATIA was able to achieve during these tough times.
“And now, with Christian Hunter’s appointment to ATIA Chair, alongside Laura Ruffles and Graham Turner as Vice Chairs – and let’s not forget the continued passion of Dean Long as CEO – I am confident that our travel community remains in exceptional hands.
“I would like to also thank my fellow board members and the entire team at ATIA for their unwavering support and collaboration along the journey. Being a part of this group has been a true high point in my professional career.”
Meanwhile, Barry said she was thrilled to join the ATIA board at a “pivotal time for our industry”.
“The travel sector is facing significant challenges and opportunities, and I look forward to contributing my experience to help guide the association and its members through these times,” she added.
“I am committed to supporting ATIA’s mission of advocating for and strengthening the Australian travel industry.”
In June, ATIA announced several changes to its board after its 47th Annual General Meeting (AGM).
