The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) concluded its successful education seminar series, providing valuable networking opportunities for its members, in partnership with the Korea Tourism Organization Sydney Office (KTO) in Sydney last night, at the Royal Exchange.
CATO Vice-Chair Lisa Pagotto emceed the evening in a traditional Hanbok dress, sharing insights on South Korea and her personal connection to the destination, its uniqueness and how members can truly experience a different side of the destination, in conversation with senior members of the KTO team. CATO members were also treated to a Korean style banquet and a demonstration of making Somaek (combination of soju, Korean rice wine and maekju, Korean beer).
The Sydney event brought a close to two other successful events in this series, held in Melbourne and Brisbane, where over 120 members collectively attended the events.
In addition to members gaining a deeper insight into South Korea at all three events, Intrepid co-founder Geoff Manchester, gave members an exclusive insight in Melbourne, into the benefits of B-Corp certification, and the Intrepid Groups journey to becoming certified, highlighting the impact this has made on its business.
In Brisbane, Alissa O’Connell, Global Head of People and Culture, Flight Centre Travel Group provided valuable insights into their talent acquisition strategies, employee retention and business culture. This was a very topical conversation, given the challenge we face as an industry as we immerse from the pandemic, attracting and retaining employees to service the pent-up demand, with changes to business culture, and the value proposition offered, being crucial for the industry’s recovery.
“These events have provided some incredible education and insights for our members as support whilst they recover from the pandemic and rebuild their businesses. We will continue to provide more of these initiatives, which combine education and valuable networking opportunities, and I would like to thank KTO Sydney for their wonderful support.” said CATO Managing Director, Brett Jardine.
