Cork-based travel agent ‘honoured’ to take over as ITAA head

Cork-based travel agent Tom Randles has been elected as the new president of the Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA).

He was elected to the position following the association’s AGM at The InterContinental Hotel in Ballsbridge, Dublin.

Mr Randles joined Barter’s Travelnet in Cork as financial controller in April 1996. Originally from Killarney, he was appointed managing director in January 2012 and successfully completed a takeover of the company in March 2023.

The ITAA represents the travel industry in Ireland, bringing together more than 100 travel agent members and 70 affiliate partners in more than 140 outlets in different towns and cities throughout Ireland.

Mr Randles described it as an honour to take up his new position as ITAA president: “I step into this role with an enthusiasm and a deep respect for those who have come before me. The travel industry has undergone extraordinary change in recent years, from the growing focus on sustainability to groundbreaking advancements in technology and AI.

“The industry I joined is barely recognisable today, just as it was a completely different world when the association first raised its sails in the 1970s,” he said.

“As the industry changed its shape, so has the ITAA. We have embraced these changes, evolving into trusted advisors, industry experts and problem solvers for our clients.”

Meanwhile, at the AGM Martin Skelly, director of Navan Travel, was elected treasurer. Other appointments to the ITAA board included Paul Hackett of Click&Go Holidays, Jeff Collins of Best4Travel, Caroline Quigley of Keith Prowse Ireland, Alan Lynch of Travel Escapes, Maura Fahy of Fahy Travel, Olivia McGeown of Centre Travel, and Angela Walsh of FROSCH Ireland.

Clare Dunne, CEO of the ITAA, said she is “delighted to work alongside an exceptional team of industry experts”.

“Each board member brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and strategic insight, ensuring we are well-equipped to navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead.

“Together, our collective efforts will not only drive a successful year for the association but also contribute to the long-term resilience and growth of the Irish travel industry,” she added.