ITAA-Backed Travel Industry Leadership Excellence Skills Programme Returns for 2026

Positive2Work Skillnet, in partnership with the Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA), has announced the return of the certified Leadership Excellence in the Travel Industry Programme for 2026.

Designed specifically for travel agency owners, managers, team leaders and aspiring leaders, the programme has been developed to address the unique challenges and opportunities facing professionals working in the Irish travel sector. Combining practical leadership development with specialist industry knowledge, the programme equips participants with the confidence, tools and insight needed to lead high-performing teams, navigate change and drive business success.

Commenting on the programme, Clare Dunne, ITAA CEO, said: “Leadership in today’s travel industry requires more than operational expertise. As our sector evolves rapidly, leaders need to be agile, customer-focused and innovative, while championing responsible and sustainable tourism. This programme provides practical skills that can be applied immediately, from developing high-performing teams and strengthening communication to understanding travel law, digital transformation and responsible travel. It is an excellent opportunity for current and future leaders to build their confidence, strengthen their skills and lead with purpose in an increasingly competitive and changing industry.”

The 2026 programme will run from 11th September to 22nd October 2026 and will combine in-person learning in Dublin with ten live online interactive modules. The programme begins with a two-day in-person workshop, including expert-led sessions, interactive group work and peer networking, followed by online modules covering key areas including Introduction to Leadership, High Performing Teams, Leading with Emotional Intelligence, Communication with Impact, Finance for Non-Financial Managers, Coaching for Managers, Digital Transformation, Responsible Travel, Challenging Conversations, Travel Law, Resilience and Sales Process Optimisation.

Gráinne O’Boyle, Network Manager, Positive2Work Skillnet, said, “The Leadership Excellence in the Travel Industry Programme continues to provide valuable development opportunities for professionals working across the Irish travel sector. The programme combines expert-led leadership training with industry-specific content, ensuring participants gain practical skills that support their own career development while strengthening their organisations.

“We have seen the positive impact this programme can have on participants, helping them build confidence, enhance their leadership capability and create stronger professional networks within the travel industry,” she concluded.

Delivered by experienced leadership facilitators and industry specialists, the programme provides participants with practical knowledge across leadership, commercial performance, sustainability, technology and travel law.

The programme concludes with participant presentations, certificate presentation and a graduation celebration lunch in Dublin on 22nd October 2026.

The programme fee is €995 and includes overnight accommodation and dinner on 11th September, lunches on both in-person training days, graduation lunch, certificate of completion and all learning materials. The Leadership Excellence in the Travel Industry Programme qualifies for the ITAA Training Credit for members to invest in professional development.

For further information or to register for the Leadership Excellence in the Travel Industry Programme, email jean@itaa.ie or check HERE.