Scott Koepf, formerly vice president of strategic business for Sabre Holdings and a respected industry veteran, has been named as the new president of the National Association of Commissioned Travel Agents (NACTA).
Koepf replaces Joanie Ogg, NACTA's founder, who has joined Travel Counsellors, a major host agency. Koepf starts his assignment April 1.
"Scott was the ideal candidate to take over NACTA's operations. His experience in all aspects of the industry and his commitment to travel agents will be an asset to NACTA as it moves forward," said Bill Maloney, ASTA executive vice president and COO. NACTA is an affiliate of ASTA, representing independent contractors, outside agents and supporting groups.
"ASTA is committed to expanding NACTA and the many benefits members receive, such as the recently announced Virtual Cruise Night and Virtual Travel Sale. In hiring Scott, we are hiring a strong leader who can take the association to the next level of growth and profitability," Maloney said.
"Travel is in my blood and helping travel agents succeed is my passion," said Koepf. "I see my new role as NACTA president to defend and support the home-based agents' position and needs within the industry. NACTA is the industry leader because of commitment. I plan to continue where Joanie Ogg left off, and make sure NACTA is not only the best association for home-based agents but one that helps agents in multiple ways to become more successful in this business."
Prior to joining Sabre Holdings, Koepf served as general manager for both Nexion, a host travel agency with more than $250 million in annual sales, and Jurni, a travel agency consortium. Koepf was president and owner of Ultimate Seminars and was earlier affiliated with Cruise Holidays, a major franchise group. (GD)