TICA's job response delays appointment

By David Johnson BANGKOK The Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA) has been swamped with applications for the vacant post of executive director following the departure of Mr Anuchart Chanarong, who resigned after ten years in the post. TICA's selection committee, which includes the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) international convention division director Mr Udom Metatamrongsiri put out the call to the industry in March and had hoped to make a decision by April. But the demand for the prestigious position in Thailand's booming sector has taken the committee by surprise and has delayed a decision. As a result of the delay, CEI Asia Pacific understands that Mr Anuchart will stay on until a replacement is found. "We have had literally hundreds of applicants and have now short-listed 20 people," said vice-president of TICA Mr Opas Netraumpai, who also sits on the selection committee. "A decision will be made by July." The short-listed candidates have been requested to submit a "vision paper" to the committee on TICA's role in Thailand's convention and incentive sector. Disruption in senior positions in key government and private-sector institutions have caused some industry observers to fear a lack of continuity and quick decision-making will affect the dynamic progress of the country's industry.