
Secretary-General
The European Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’ Association – ECTAA
Eric Dresin is the Secretary General of the European Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’ Associations (ECTAA), an influential organization representing and promoting the interests of travel agents and tour operators across Europe. In his role, Eric is responsible for guiding the strategic vision of ECTAA, strengthening ties with key stakeholders, and championing policy initiatives that enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of the European travel sector.
Early Insights and Professional PathWhile details of Eric’s early life and education are not widely publicized, his career trajectory reflects a deep commitment to advocacy, industry collaboration, and policy development. Before joining ECTAA, Eric gathered extensive experience in European and international affairs—an ideal background for navigating the regulatory landscape of one of the world’s most vibrant travel markets.
His expertise in stakeholder engagement and policy negotiation became increasingly evident as he took on leadership and advisory roles in associations and institutions dedicated to travel and tourism. This foundation prepared him for the complexities of representing diverse business interests—ranging from large tour operators to small, independent travel agencies—within a unified framework.
Role at ECTAAAs Secretary General, Eric stands at the forefront of ECTAA’s efforts to:
Advocate for Effective Regulation: Working directly with European Union institutions and national authorities, Eric ensures that legislation and policies address the evolving needs of the travel sector, from consumer protection regulations to the impact of emerging technologies.
Foster Collaboration: Recognizing the fragmented nature of Europe’s travel market, Eric prioritizes partnerships and open dialogue among members, helping them share best practices, navigate challenges, and benefit from collective knowledge.
Drive Sustainability Initiatives: With sustainable tourism an ever-growing focus, Eric guides ECTAA’s commitment to environmentally responsible policies and practices. Under his leadership, the organization actively promotes green standards and engages with travel stakeholders on carbon reduction and responsible tourism campaigns.
Enhance Industry Visibility: By representing ECTAA on various advisory boards, conferences, and public forums, Eric amplifies the collective voice of European travel agents and tour operators, championing their role in delivering reliable and customer-focused travel experiences.
Since assuming his position, Eric has been instrumental in broadening ECTAA’s engagement with policymakers, ensuring the travel sector’s perspective is heard during critical legislative discussions—particularly relevant in times of rapid change, such as digital transformation and post-pandemic recovery.
He is also recognized for his communication skills, which enable him to effectively highlight the value of travel agencies and tour operators in Europe’s broader economic and cultural tapestry. His leadership has reinforced ECTAA’s reputation as a key player in shaping the future of European tourism, emphasizing balanced regulations that protect both consumers and businesses.
Vision and LeadershipA forward-thinking strategist, Eric envisions a resilient and innovative travel industry—one that leverages digital solutions to better serve travelers, integrates sustainable practices, and fosters meaningful connections between destinations and visitors. His approach balances economic viability with a sense of corporate responsibility, aiming to position the European travel sector as a global benchmark for quality, safety, and ethics.