Accomplished travel industry leader Paul McGrath has returned to the travel industry after a few years away as the new CEO for YHA Australia youth hostels.
A former Managing Director of guided holidays giant Trafalgar Australia and FIT brand Creative Holidays – both part of The Travel Corporation stable – McGrath has assumed overall responsibility for more than 60 hostels across Australia and a business generating annual turnover of around AUD$46 million.
Speaking on his appointment, which commenced this week, McGrath said it was an honour to be offered the opportunity to lead an iconic brand in the youth travel sector.
“We are currently dealing with significant global challenges, and I look forward to leading YHA to rebuild from the foundations up once the recovery in tourism begins. YHA has a close alignment to my personal values, and a strong reputation as a place of passionate people, incredible assets, and with a solid legacy,” he said.
McGrath’s announcement was made by YHA Australia Vice-Chair Tracey Powell, who has served on YHA Boards for the past decade and was recently elected Chair at the organisation’s recent Annual General Meeting.