May the Force Be with You: A Farewell Message from PATA CEO Dr Mario Hardy

“Ce n'est qu'un au revoir”

Fifteen months ago, I announced that I would not be extending my contract with PATA for a third term. Little did I know that I would be spending an entire year grounded, not travelling, not seeing my family, and not shaking hands with friends and industry colleagues around the world. Never did I think that I would be spending the year meeting people through a pinhole camera on my iPad and that “Zoom” would become a verb. To say the past year has been challenging and tough on everyone’s morale is an understatement.

“Reflecting on the past 7 years”

I was first introduced to PATA in 2008 after being invited to observe a PATA Foundation meeting in Sri Lanka. Everyone made me feel welcome, and I was impressed by the immense sense of collaboration and support shown by all attendees and the staff members of the Secretariat, unaware that several years later I would end up leading this organisation.

I have had a fantastic time over the past several years and have met some incredible people from all four corners of the globe. I have seen the organisation truly transform itself and adapt to an industry that is in constant change and, most importantly, witnessed the positive impact PATA can have on destinations and organisations with the many initiatives and campaigns it has implemented over recent years. Most importantly, I have had the privilege to work with a fantastic team of people that genuinely believe in PATA’s mission and are committed to seeing it thrive.  

It has been an honour and privilege to lead this incredible organisation during some of its most transformative years, but also in these challenging times.

As PATA celebrates its 70th anniversary, I encourage all of you to pause and reflect on the lessons learned over the past year and be there for one another. Now more than ever, partnering for a better tomorrow is critical. I truly wish the travel and tourism industry will experience a speedy and effective recovery so that we can all travel again soon, see our family, our friends and enjoy discovering new places and cultures.

I sincerely wish my successor, Liz Ortiguera, great success and ask that you make her feel welcome and provide her the support needed to ensure PATA has even greater success in the years to come.

On a more personal note, many may wonder what is next for me. For now, I will spend my days cycling, running or walking on the beach, and sitting on the terrace, thinking of my next venture. If you wish to stay in touch, you can follow me on LinkedIn, where I am active on a daily basis.

Till next time...

Stay safe, stay strong and “May The Force Be With You.”

 Dr. Mario Hardy,

Chief Executive Officer

Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA)