TAT names Juthamas governor

BANGKOK Ms Juthamas Siriwan, deputy governor for marketing at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has been selected as the authority's new governor after almost eight months with the position vacant. Former governor, Mr Pradech Phayavichien, was suspended on January 3 pending an investigation into allegations that he held shares in a company that had been awarded TAT contracts. The investigation found he did hold the shares, but cleared him of any wrongdoing. Instead he was found guilty of unethical behaviour in holding the shares in the first place and was moved to an advisory position. Ms Juthamas, 55, beat two other candidates for the position, deputy governor, Mr Patpong Abhisatapong and Mr Krisada Taratorn, director of Clean Technology. Mr Somsak Thepsutin, TAT chairman and a minister to the prime minister's office, said the five-member recruitment panel agreed unanimously on Ms Juthamas. The selection criteria was based on tourism knowledge, organisational management and risk management skill, said Mr Vichit Na Ranong, a senior travel industry executive in Thailand and a member of the recruitment committee. The trade in Thailand has welcomed the appointment, especially ahead of the IT&CMA event in Bangkok in October. Hopes are high this will pave the way for a formal launch of the Thailand Exhibition and Convention Bureau.