ASTA gets its man

As reported in yesterday’s (Feb. 13) Press Today, ASTA has picked Zane Kerby as its new president and CEO. Kerby takes over his new post on Feb. 19, moving over to ASTA from the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), where he has been senior vice-president, events, sponsorships and advertising — with responsibility for all aspects of GBTA’s global annual convention — since 2009. Under new bylaws adopted by the ASTA board of directors in 2012, Kerby’s responsibilities will include reporting directly to the board of directors on all internal and external ASTA business as well as being the primary spokesperson for ASTA. “ASTA is excited to bring Zane Kerby’s energy and experience to its top staff position,” said Nina Meyer, ASTA chair of the board who has served as interim CEO since the resignation of Tony Gonchar in July 2012. “We believe he is the right person at this critical time in the Society’s history when we are re-imagining ASTA’s annual meeting and fighting to preserve the integrity of travel selling for travel agents. He is familiar with our issues and understands our strengths and our challenges. We look forward to working with him to enhance ASTA’s legacy.” In taking on his new role, Kerby said, “I am honored that the ASTA Board of Directors has chosen me to lead our staff efforts. I have spent the majority of my career working in travel, and have a deep respect for the organization and its members. I’m looking forward to working with the Board and staff to develop meaningful educational experiences that serve the needs of our members around the globe.”