James Haigh has been appointed as the new chair of the African Travel and Tourism Association (Atta), bringing extensive experience to the role.
- Haigh, with over 15 years in the African travel industry, succeeds the outgoing chair Nick Aslin this October.
- He served as joint chief executive of Tourvest’s east African operations, contributing significantly to tourism.
- Haigh aims to continue Atta’s work in promoting sustainable tourism and supporting African communities.
- Atta president commends Haigh’s understanding of the continent’s tourism challenges and opportunities.
James Haigh, an experienced professional in the travel and tourism industry, has been appointed as the new chair of the African Travel and Tourism Association (Atta). Haigh will assume this role in October, succeeding Nick Aslin, the outgoing chair. His appointment signifies a new chapter for Atta, as Haigh brings with him over 15 years of extensive experience working across the African region.
During his tenure as joint chief executive with his wife Leanne at Tourvest’s east African operations, Haigh has made substantial contributions to the tourism sector. His work has primarily focused on promoting sustainable tourism practices that benefit local communities across various African countries. Haigh’s dedication to the industry is evident in his continuous efforts to enhance tourism’s positive impact on staff, families, and communities within the region.
Atta president, Nigel Vere Nicoll, has expressed strong support for Haigh’s appointment. In a statement, Vere Nicoll highlighted Haigh’s profound understanding of both the challenges and opportunities that the African travel and tourism industry faces. Haigh’s leadership is expected to further solidify Atta’s role as a prominent voice for Africa in the global tourism sector.
In response to his appointment, James Haigh expressed his honour and readiness to serve as Atta’s chair. He emphasised the organisation’s crucial role in advocating for sustainable tourism development in the post-Covid world. Haigh remarked, “I am truly honoured to serve as chair of Atta starting this October. In a post-Covid world, Atta is exceptionally well-positioned to advocate for sustainable tourism development that benefits communities across Africa.”
Outgoing chair Nick Aslin endorsed the selection of Haigh, noting that his leadership is expected to ensure the continuation of the valuable endeavours initiated by Atta over the past three decades. Aslin commented, “The appointment of James Haigh will ensure that the valuable work undertaken by Atta over the past 30 years will continue in a positive and proactive manner.”
James Haigh’s extensive experience and commitment to sustainable tourism position him as an excellent choice for leading Atta into the future.
