The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) has appointed Greek MICE expert Leonidas Babanis as the president of its chapter in Greece and Cyprus.

Bob Duglin, Vice President, International Membership & Host Agencies, and Managing Director of ASTA Small Business Network thanked Leonidas for taking over his new position at a very challenging time for the tourism industry.

“I look forward to working with you on a mutually beneficial relationship for our Greek and Cypriot members and building ties with the ASTA members in the USA,” he said.

Leonidas is the CEO of North Events, a company organizing tourism fairs for Greece and Cyprus throughout Europe since 2014. North Events focuses on Greek tourism, gastronomy and culture.

He is also the organizer of the Greek hybrid exhibition, Virtual Greek Panorama, which will take place online in November.

In his new role, Leonidas will focus on strengthening the relations between the Greek and Cypriot markets with the ASTA members in the US, and increasing inbound tourism.

“Technology will help us stay in touch during this difficult time. In the near future, tourism will flourish again. Let’s be prepared to welcome better times ahead,” he said.

Leonidas also thanked the outgoing president of ASTA Greece and Cyprus Chapter George Paliouras for contributing to the establishment of strong relations between ASTA members in Greece and the US.