The Accommodation Association of Australia (AAoA) has revealed distinguished Hotelier Michael Johnson, currently MD of Tourism Accommodation Australia, will take over as interim CEO in the lead-up to the proposed amalgamation that’s due in mid-2023.
The move follows last Friday’s (Sep 30) key milestone of both the Accommodation Association Council and Australian Hotels Association Board separately agreeing the Scheme of Amalgamation to create the new, united peak body, Accommodation Australia, subject to a member vote and a couple of regulatory steps.
“Michael will primarily be focused on our core business, ensuring we maintain our focus on Advocacy, National Policy, and delivering services and events that add value for our members,” said Accommodation Association President, Leanne Harwood.
“His parallel role with TAA will greatly assist in alignment across these areas.
“Cass Champion will continue to lead our RTP business with a focus on attracting, training and placing talent, and our career development pathways in hospitality. I know this is important to our members and that they have been seeing the benefits of our work in this space.
“Thank you to our members for your support to date. This is another step forward to Australia’s Accommodation Sector speaking with one voice to deliver even stronger industry representation for our members.”
Recruitment for the inaugural CEO role for Accommodation Australia is already under way.