ECTAA Announces Eric Drésin as New Secretary General

Eric Drésin

The European Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’ Association (ECTAA) has appointed Eric Drésin as its new Secretary General.

He is replacing Michel De Blust, who is retiring after having been in charge of ECTAA since 1989. “Thanks to his permanent commitment, ECTAA became a strong and recognized organisation in the travel industry in Europe and worldwide,” the association said in an announcement.

Eric Drésin holds a Master’s Degree in Law and a Postgraduate Degree in European Politics, and began his professional career in both the French and Belgian Parliaments. Since 2001, he held positions in different European associations.

“I thank ECTAA’s Board of Directors for their confidence. With their support and the support of the member organizations, ECTAA will raise to the challenges of the industry, among other the insolvency of Thomas Cook as well as three airlines since September, notably Aigle Azur, XL Airways and Adria Airways,” Eric Drésin said.

“Further strengthening the voice of the travel distribution vis a vis the European and international organizations as well as fruitful cooperation with other stakeholders and partners will be our priority,” he added.

ECTAA President Pawel Niewiadomski welcomed Eric Drésin to the association. “His longstanding experience in European affairs and as association manager will be a crucial asset for our organization,” he said.

ECTAA regroups the national associations of travel agents and tour operators of 29 European countries and represents some 80.000 enterprises.