TICO WANTS YOU: Seeks new members for advisory councils

Following the dissolution of the previous Consumer and Industry Advisory Committee (CIAC) effective Dec. 31, the Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) is launching a new opportunity for Ontario’s travel industry to provide input on the way travel consumer protection is delivered in the province.

Stating that “travel retailers and wholesalers serve a vital role in ensuring TICO’s consumer protection mandate is embraced and delivered to consumers in an effective and efficient manner,” and following orders from the provincial ministry last year, TICO is launching two new councils – the Industry Advisory Council (IAC) to hear directly from industry, while a separate Consumer Advisory Council (CAC) will be dedicated to receiving feedback from consumers.

The purpose of TICO’s Industry Advisory Council (IAC) is to provide guidance and advice to the Board of Directors and senior management in the execution of TICO’s mandate. The separate Consumer Advisory Council (CAC) will be dedicated to receiving feedback from consumers.

Members of the two new councils are expected to possess a “positive orientation” towards TICO’s consumer protection mandate, says TICO.

Recruiting

With the IAC set to become active as of April 1, 2024, 14 members will be chosen for the inaugural council with the following stated goal:

“To select members representing a broad range of registrant business models reflective of different products, delivery channels, consumer groups, etc. from across the province. In addition to a positive orientation to consumer protection, we are also looking for prospective members who:

Understand and embrace TICO’s consumer protection mandate
Considered by peers as independent thinkers recognized for consensus building with strong strategic, risk management, communications, and teamwork skills
Represent the diversity of Ontario, willing to consider a broad range of perspectives; and
Have unquestionable integrity, credibility, and high ethical standards.”

TICO further notes: “The IAC will meet up to four times per year, ideally in-person, where members have the time to commit to becoming a strong contributor.”

How to apply

Those interested in representing their travel sector perspective and contributing to the future of TICO’s consumer protection mandate must send their resume to IACapplications@tico.ca and complete the application form HERE.

Deadline for applications is Friday, Feb. 6, 2024, at 4 pm.

For more information, visit TICO’s website, which provides further details, context and expectations for future IAC members. Questions can be directed to tico@tico.ca

TICO notes that common to similar public sector councils, members should expect a reasonable but thorough review of their candidacy, including an interview and necessary background checks. Successful candidates will receive a standard per diem for meetings “to reflect the expected modest time commitment”