Rowland, who has been on Abta’s board of directors for seven years, takes over from Sunvil chairman Noel Josephides, who is standing down as Abta chairman after six years.
“I look forward immensely to taking on my new role as chairman of the UK’s leading travel association,” said Rowland.
“Now, more than ever, it is vital that we have an association that represents the voice of the industry, supports the needs of its members and helps their customers to feel confident in travelling.
“The association has made strong progress under chief executive Mark Tanzer and the chairmanship of my predecessor, Noel Josephides, and I’m keen to further build on that good work.”
Mark Tanzer, Abta’s chief executive, added: “Alistair has served with distinction on our board of directors, and his expertise, professionalism and enthusiasm will be invaluable in our ongoing work to support our members and their customers as well as helping to deliver Abta’s business plan.”
Daniele Broccoli, from Britaly Travel, and Jamie Gardiner, of Diverse World, were both re-elected to Abta’s board, while Richard Downs, chief executive of Iglu.com, has stepped down from the board after completing his term of office.
