The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) has divided
the organization into two divisions, one that focuses on the membership and
trade organization and the other on events and services for the
adventure travel industry.
As part of this business restructure, current president and
owner Shannon Stowell moves into the role of CEO while ATTA vice president of
marketing and communications, Casey Hanisko, has been promoted to president of
the business service division, which will oversee events and services as well
as the day-to-day operation of ATTA. Hanisko has been with ATTA for five years.
Luis Vargas has been named president of the membership and
trade organization. He has previous experience at adventure travel companies
that include The Clymb, Disney, and REI.
Additionally, Jason Reckers is moving from managing director
of ATTA to chief operating officer. Reckers has been with ATTA since 2005.
The membership and trade organization is designed to create
networking, business and trade opportunities. It currently serves more than
1,000 members in 100 countries, which are made up of tour operators, tourism
boards, travel agents, accommodations and suppliers all with a vested interest
in sustainable adventure tourism development.
The business services division delivers a portfolio of
events around the globe, including AdventureNEXT, which focuses on regional
promotion and partnerships; AdventureELEVATE, a North American-based
educational conference; and the Adventure Travel World Summit. The ATTA
business service division will also offer to its partners specialized expertise
in research, events, education, media, and promotion.
Hanisko and Vargas will both participate in ATTA events. The
membership and trade organization and business services division will be
integrated within the larger association and will continue to work with current
partners and members.