Skål Bangkok President James Thurlby outlines 2025 goals: expand membership, foster collaboration, and strengthen Thailand’s role in global tourism.
Over coffee in the elegant lobby of the five-star Sukhothai Bangkok Hotel, Skål Bangkok President Mr James Thurlby shared his vision for the future of the club. Reflecting on an extraordinary 2024, he outlined plans to further solidify the organisation’s influence in Thailand’s vibrant travel and tourism industry.
President Thurlby expressed his optimism for 2025, following a year capped by an outstanding Christmas Charity event held in partnership with the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) at the Hyatt Regency on Sukhumvit Road. The event brought together over 155 of Thailand’s leading travel and tourism executives, raising substantial funds for local charities. This collaboration epitomizes Thurlby’s presidency, which prioritises connecting prominent businesses and fostering cooperation to strengthen Skål’s membership and influence.
Under Thurlby’s leadership, the Bangkok club has experienced a resurgence. Membership has reached its highest level in years, thanks to strategic efforts by a cohesive committee of eight. Among his team are Vice Presidents Marvin Bemand and Andrew Wood, as well as Kanokros Sakdanares, who holds the newly created position of Vice President of Women in Leadership. Together, they champion Skål’s mantra of “doing business among friends,” aiming for mutual benefits for members and their organizations.
Driving Growth and Unity
Thurlby acknowledged that Skål International has undergone significant changes, including challenges posed by the pandemic, which led to a decline in membership. However, he believes a renewed focus on harmony, collaboration, and business generation will enable the organisation to rebuild and thrive.
“With 301 clubs across 84 countries, there is immense potential to achieve even greater success,” he stated. “We must channel this potential into bolstering our membership and supporting one another in driving sustainable growth.”
Thurlby is particularly passionate about Thailand’s unique position as a global tourism destination, noting its ability to attract record numbers of visitors. While Skål has a strong presence in Bangkok, he highlighted the need to revitalise clubs in Pattaya, Hua Hin, Chiang Mai, and Krabi to fully capitalise on the country’s tourism assets.
Goals for 2025
As the Bangkok club enters the new year, Thurlby has outlined three core objectives:
- Hosting Women in Leadership events to promote inclusivity.
- Expanding membership through innovative strategies.
- Strengthening relationships with local sponsors and stakeholders.
Additionally, Thurlby’s expertise in digital marketing, honed through his work with Move Ahead Media and his role as Co-Chair of Skål International’s IT Committee, has enabled the club to enhance its digital presence and membership experience. His contributions were recognised last year when he was named an Exemplary Skalleague by Skål International.
A Global Legacy
Celebrating its 90th anniversary, Skål International remains the world’s largest network of tourism professionals, with over 12,500 members in 78 countries. The organisation has long championed tourism, business, and friendship, uniting directors and executives across the industry to address shared challenges and promote destinations worldwide.
As President since 2020, Thurlby’s tenure has been marked by resilience, innovation, and a commitment to fostering collaboration. With his vision for 2025, he continues to inspire confidence in Skål Bangkok’s ability to lead by example in a dynamic and ever-evolving industry.