History

In 1962, 12 European Tour Managers met together in London to found the International Association of Tour Managers.

Their purpose: to exchange information, views, experiences and difficulties encountered. At this stage, the Association was little more than a social club. Today, IATM is truly an "International Association", with members throughout Australasia, Europe, India, Israel, North and South America, and Taiwan.

Worldwide Growth in Membership

In 1983 IATM was divided into Regions to cope with the worldwide growth in membership. Each Regional Chairman is appointed to the IATM Board of Directors. This arrangement allows for a measure of local autonomy and for attention to be given to local needs and interests.

Since 1984 IATM has been actively involved representing the interests of Tour Managers to the institutions of the EU, specifically working toward recognition of the profession of Tour Manager. In 1992 the EU approved a syllabus for the training of professional Tour Managers which became the basis of the Certificate of Tour Management (CTM). The CTM examination is not available / organized at this moment.

Long and Proud Relationships

IATM has a long and proud relationship with the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) having been an Allied member of ASTA since the earliest days of the association. We also maintain close links with the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA).

In 2004 IATM joined the European Tour Operators Association (ETOA) allowing us to maintain close co-operation with Tour Operators and to discuss issues of common interest.

Important Issues

Important issues currently being discussed include: the employment status of Tour Managers: recognition of the added-value of Tour Managers; relations with Tourist Guides; free movement within the E.U.; working hours; and the dynamic nature of modern Group Package Travel.