Reed Travel Exhibitions, organiser of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), has given former group exhibition director Mark Walsh an expanded remit and directive.

In addition to Arabian Travel Market to lead the luxury and specialist shows in his new role as portfolio director.

Walsh’s successful management of ATM, the Middle East’s premier travel and tourism event, and hands-on leadership in facing the twin challenges of the global economic slowdown and the Arab Spring, has given him a uniquely well-rounded perspective to drive new business opportunities.

Richard Mortimore, managing director of Reed Travel Exhibitions, commenting on the appointment said: “This expanded role reflects Mark’s professional capabilities and commitment to Reed Travel Exhibitions.

“His no-nonsense style of business is both popular with the ATM team and our partners. He has consistently delivered a successful business strategy and shown determined leadership in his delivery.”

Under Mark’s direction, ATM attendance numbers have increased year-on-year growing from 21,900 in 2009 to 23,984 in 2011.

In terms of the show’s size and reach, Mark has developed the exhibition space ensuring annual growth resulting in its current size of 20,500 square metres.

He has also launched a number of positive exhibitor and visitor initiatives to reflect the market including dedicated cruise and medical pavilions, workshops and seminars.

In his expanded role as luxury and specialist portfolio director, Walsh will continue to run ATM along with other significant travel exhibitions including International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM), ILTM Asia in Shanghai, International Golf Travel Market (IGTM), and La Cumbre - the annual Americas’ Travel Industry Summit.

Walsh said: “This is a great opportunity to focus on a complementary portfolio of industry events and off the back of the success of ATM is an exciting time for myself and the team to be working across multiple markets with global tourism and travel industry leaders.”