The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) Committee have opened nominations for a position in the organisation.
The opening of the nominations comes after CATO Director James O’Donnell decided to step down effective 31 July 2026.
O’Donnell has served as a CATO Director for five years and plays a vital role in the organisation’s evolution, including the committee’s integration into the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) on 1 July 2026.
Following his recent departure from The Travel Corporation (TTC), O’Donnell decided to step aside from the Committee to ensure the position is held by someone engaged in the daily operations of Australia’s touring and wholesale sector.
“With my departure from TTC, I will no longer be working within the sector on a day to day basis, and I believe this position should be held by someone who can bring that immediate industry perspective to the Committee,” O’Donnell said. “It has been an enormous privilege to serve as a CATO Director over the past five years.”
The opportunity comes shortly after ATIA appointed CATO Committee Chair Sean Martin to its Board.
“James has made a significant contribution to CATO over the past five years,” Martin said. “This vacancy presents an excellent opportunity for a passionate and experienced industry leader to help shape CATO’s future, contribute to our advocacy priorities and represent the interests of Australia’s touring and wholesale community.”
