Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of ABTA, today announced to staff proposed structural changes in the organisation. These changes are part of the continuing integration of ABTA and FTO, following last year’s amalgamation, and part of a wider efficiency drive which includes the recent relocation to smaller premises.

As a result of the imminent departure of Andy Cooper, Director General of FTO and ABTA Head of Development, it is proposed to create two new roles in the Senior Management team. To coordinate and drive ABTA’s important lobbying role on behalf of its Members, a Head of Public Affairs will be recruited. ABTA will also be recruiting a Head of Destination Strategy and Services, leading on health and safety, responsible tourism and crisis management.

In addition, Susan Lamb, currently Operations Manager is promoted to the management team as Head of ABTA Operations, in which role she will drive performance and efficiency improvements across all of ABTA’s operations.

It was also announced that several job losses are proposed. Further details are not available at this stage, as employees are consulted.

Mark Tanzer said: “The proposed changes are part of the continuing evolution of ABTA into an integrated and focused Association that can demonstrate outstanding effectiveness and efficiency to our Members.”