Aito has promoted Bharat Gadhoke to the new role of head of commercial.
Gadhoke, formerly Aito’s membership manager, has spent five years with the association.
Prior to joining Aito, Gadhoke was an account manager at Aito member Beachcomber Tours and previous to that, a manager at American Express Travel and at Flight Centre UK Limited.
Aito deputy chairman John Tangney said: “Bharat’s role has expanded considerably over the past five years, from research, recruitment and retention of top-quality members (both operators and agents) and keeping tabs on key industry issues, to a far broader remit, including liaison with government departments on all the key topics affecting Aito members.
“As Aito’s new head of commercial, Bharat’s much-expanded portfolio within the organisation has been recognised; he is, effectively, our new executive director’s deputy, delivering welcome continuity at a time of change.”
Gadhoke’s promotion follows the appointment of Martyn Sumners as executive director in March.
Sumners, said: "Bharat is, in my view, a core member of the Aito team and I am delighted to recognise his sterling efforts over the past five years in the form of this well-deserved promotion.
“Bharat’s extensive experience and strong industry relationships – gained during both his time at AITO and in his previous industry roles within the travel sector – are, quite simply, invaluable to the entire Aito team, and especially to me as I settle into my new role.”