McINERNEY SAYS FAREWELL TO PATA

Mr. Joseph A. McInerney has announced his resignation as CEO of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), effective September 30, 2001. Mr. McInerney will return to the United States, where he has been named President and CEO of the Washington, D.C.-based American Hotel & Lodging Association -- the largest national trade association for the U.S. hotel and lodging industry.

Mr. McInerney joined PATA as CEO in November 1997. During his tenure, the Association achieved a number of milestones, including the relocation of PATA’s operational headquarters to Bangkok, the development of the Premier Partner sponsorship programme and the formation of permanent committees to encourage greater involvement by members.

At the same time, PATA’s administrative headquarters and Americas Division were moved from San Francisco to Oakland (California) and PATA Asia Division was consolidated into PATA’s operational headquarters in Bangkok.

PATA also underlined its commitment to environmental protection and sustainable tourism by setting up the PATA Sustainable Tourism Conference, which will take place in Indonesia next year.

Mr. McInerney’s tenure also encompassed the highly acclaimed 50th PATA Annual Conference in Kuala Lumpur in April. The event witnessed PATA’s golden jubilee celebrations.

"I have truly enjoyed my time with PATA," said Mr. McInerney. "It has been a privilege and pleasure to work on behalf of the Association’s membership for nearly four years. However, the time has come for me to move on."

PATA’s 2001/2002 officers -- Chairman John Sandford, Chairman-Elect Bo W. Long and Secretary/Treasurer Ram Kohli -- are overseeing the executive search for Mr. McInerney’s replacement.

"Joe has made a tremendous impact on the Association," said Mr. Sandford. "His leadership and friendship will be greatly missed by all."