Tom Randles, Managing Director of Barters Travelnet in Cork was elected President of the Irish Travel Agents Association(ITAA) at their AGM held yesterday at The InterContinental Hotel, Ballsbridge, Dublin.
Originally from Killarney and a qualified Chartered Accountant, Tom Randles joined Barter’s Travelnet in Cork as Financial Controller in April 1996. Tom was appointed Managing Director of Barter’s Travelnet in January 2012 and successfully completed a takeover of the company in March 2023. Tom became a Board Member of the ITAA in 2023
Speaking at the AGM, Tom Randles, incoming ITAA President said
“I am honoured to have been nominated and accepted as the 24th president of the Irish Travel Agents Association. I step into this role with an enthusiasm and a deep respect for those who have come before me.”
He continued, “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. 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. In the process, we have also become strong advocates and educators for our members.
At the AGM Martin Skelly, Director of Navan Travel was elected Treasurer. Martin previously served as President of the ITAA. Other appointments to the ITAA board were: 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 stated,
“As CEO, I am 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 continued, “A key priority for us is to support our members, helping them grow and thrive in an ever-evolving industry. One way we do this is through ongoing training and upskilling initiatives, empowering them to adapt to industry changes, embrace new technologies, and enhance the services they offer. By fostering innovation, strengthening industry partnerships, and investing in professional development, we can build a thriving and sustainable future for travel in Ireland.”
