Mike Bugsgang

Mike Bugsgang, chief executive of the Association of Group Travel Organiser (AGTO), is standing down from the role at the end of this year following a three-year term. 

A press release from AGTO said that Bugsgang will continue to run his marketing & PR consultancy and will seek to take on non-executive directorships within the tourism sector.

Commenting on his decision, Bugsgang said: “My part time role as CEO of AGTO has been tremendously rewarding. I am delighted to be leaving the Association in a much a stronger position than when I joined. The strategy I implemented has enabled it to achieve a real growth in membership and a firm positioning as the voice of the group travel sector.

“The work has included a wider use of communication channels such as upgrading of the website and social media platforms, marketing campaigns to recruit new members, the creation of a Scotland Branch and the revision of various governance controls.”

About AGTO

The Association of Group Travel Organisers (previously known as the Group Travel Organisers Association) aims to offer benefits for organisers such as travel advice, insurance tips, networking opportunities and discounts.

Mike Bugsgang was the association’s first CEO after its structure was reformed in 2014 with an appointed board of directors. Consisting of six GTO and six Associate members, they will now be tasked with finding a successor.

AGTO held its annual Showcase Weekend in Warrington last month which attracted 100 delegates made of group travel organisers and travel trade suppliers.

For more information about AGTO visit www.agto.co.uk