ExBo
Executive Board
The day-to-day running of the World Federation is the responsibility of the volunteer Executive Board whose members are elected by delegates of the member countries for a two- year period at each Convention. To take a position on the Executive Board one has to know that such a position means complete involvement, dedication and many hours of work. Executive Board members who are elected must be actively practising tourist guides who are not tour operators, or tourist guide employers.
Sebastian Frankenberger
Portfolio: Conventions
Cristina Leal
Portfolio: Members
Ivana Ćuruvija
Portfolio: Public Relations
Juan Ignacio Vazquez
Portfolio: Finances
Viola Lewis
Portfolio: Training
James Saunders
Portfolio: Activities, Social Media
Kalliopi Panou
The position Vicepresident and Secretary are elected by the new ExBo itself and added to one of the portfolio holders.
The ExBo also has the opportunity to coopt more members for special tasks.
President
Role Overview
The President is the chief representative of the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations, serving as the primary spokesperson and public face of the organisation. The President provides strategic leadership, ensures effective governance, and represents the Federation at international forums, conferences, and with partner organisations including UN Tourism, UNESCO, and regional tourism bodies.
The President delegates operational tasks to portfolio holders whilst maintaining oversight of all Federation activities. This role requires strong leadership, diplomatic skills, and the ability to inspire and coordinate a diverse international volunteer team.
Core Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Set the strategic direction of the Federation in alignment with the Constitution and General Assembly decisions
- Chair all Executive Board meetings and General Assembly sessions
- Convene the General Assembly and Executive Board meetings as per constitutional requirements
- Ensure decisions of the Executive Board and General Assembly are implemented
- Present the annual report to the General Assembly
External Representation
- Officially represent the Federation at international events, conferences, and meetings
- Develop and maintain relationships with partner organisations (UN Tourism, UNESCO, FEG, etc.)
- Serve as the primary media contact and spokesperson for the Federation
- Visit member associations and emerging tourist guide communities to strengthen relationships
- Represent the interests of professional tourist guides in international tourism policy discussions
Team Coordination
- Delegate tasks and responsibilities to portfolio holders and support their work
- Coordinate the work of the Executive Board and ensure effective collaboration
- Authorise expenditure and co-sign financial transactions with the Treasurer and Secretary
- Oversee crisis management and respond to urgent matters affecting the Federation
Governance and Compliance
- Ensure the Federation operates in compliance with Austrian association law and the Constitution
- Maintain the integrity and reputation of the Federation
- Work with the Secretary to ensure proper documentation and record-keeping
Required Skills and Qualifications
Essential
- Active, qualified tourist guide with current membership in a WFTGA member association
- Excellent command of English (written and spoken)
- Proven leadership experience in a professional or voluntary organisation
- Strong communication and public speaking skills
- Experience in international or cross-cultural environments
- Ability to travel internationally for Federation business
- Knowledge of the WFTGA Constitution, Code of Guiding Practice, and organisational structure
Desirable
- Previous experience on the WFTGA Executive Board or as a Delegate
- Experience in diplomacy, advocacy, or international relations
- Knowledge of international tourism organisations and policies
- Additional languages beyond English
Technical Requirements
- Proficiency with Google Workspace (Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets)
- Competence with video conferencing (Zoom, Microsoft Teams)
- Familiarity with Google Workspace
- WhatsApp for team communication
- Reliable internet connection and access to computer/laptop
Time Commitment
- Regular weeks: 15–20 hours per week
- Peak periods: 40+ hours per week (before and during conventions, major events)
- Meetings: Monthly Executive Board meetings (virtual), additional meetings as required
- Travel: International travel required for conventions, partner meetings, and member visits (typically 4–8 trips per year)
Treasurer
Role Overview
The Treasurer is responsible for the financial management and fiscal oversight of the Federation. This role ensures transparent and accurate financial reporting, manages day-to-day banking operations, and presents financial reports to the Executive Board, the Finance Inspection Committee, and the General Assembly.
The Treasurer works closely with the WFTGA Administrator for operational bookkeeping support and coordinates with an external auditor to ensure compliance with Austrian association law and accounting standards.
Core Responsibilities
Financial Management
- Maintain accurate financial records and accounts
- Manage the Federation’s bank accounts (Wise, Stripe, PayPal)
- Process approved payments and verify that payments received correspond to invoices issued
- Maintain records of all invoices (issued and received) and bank transactions
- Authorise financial transactions as one of three signatories (with President and Secretary)
Accounting and Reconciliation
- Use Xero accounting software to organise, sort, and reconcile transactions with invoices
- Assign appropriate accounting codes according to the Austrian chart of accounts
- Classify income types (membership fees, training courses, conventions, etc.)
- Ensure invoices generated in MembershipWorks are properly recorded in Xero
- Coordinate with the external auditor for annual and biennial audits
Budgeting and Reporting
- Prepare the annual budget for Executive Board approval
- Provide regular financial reports to the Executive Board and Finance Inspection Committee
- Prepare audited balance sheets and income/expenditure statements
- Present biennial financial reports to the General Assembly
- Provide cost information for decision-making on projects and initiatives
Membership Fee Administration
- Monitor membership fee payments and coordinate follow-up on outstanding fees
- Inform the Secretary and Administrator of payments received
- Process training fees and royalties from WFTGA trainers
Required Skills and Qualifications
Essential
- Active, qualified tourist guide with current membership in a WFTGA member association
- Good command of English (written and spoken)
- Strong numerical skills and attention to detail
- Experience with bookkeeping, accounting, or financial management
- Ability to learn and work with accounting software
- Understanding of basic accounting principles
- Commitment to accuracy and transparency
Desirable
- Experience with Xero or similar accounting software
- Previous experience as a treasurer in a non-profit organisation
- Knowledge of Austrian association law and accounting requirements
- Experience with international payment systems
Technical Requirements
- Proficiency with Google Workspace (Gmail, Drive)
- Competence with accounting software (Xero) or willingness to learn
- Experience with online banking (Wise, PayPal, Stripe)
- Strong Excel skills for financial analysis
- Familiarity with MembershipWorks or similar membership management systems
- Video conferencing (Zoom)
Time Commitment
- Regular weeks: 10 hours per week
- Peak periods: 30+ hours per week (year-end closing, audit preparation, convention finances)
- Meetings: Monthly Executive Board meetings, Finance Inspection Committee meetings, auditor coordination
Head of Training
Role Overview
The Head of Training is responsible for leading and managing all WFTGA training activities, ensuring the highest standards of professional development for tourist guides worldwide. This position chairs the Training Committee and oversees the Training Division, working collaboratively with trainers, International Training Centres, and course hosts to deliver WFTGA’s training programmes.
Based on the WFTGA Policies and Procedures Operating Manual – Training Division, this role encompasses strategic planning, operational management, and quality assurance of all training-related activities.
Portfolio Tasks and Responsibilities
Strategy and Governance
- Drafts a training strategy and action plan aligned with the WFTGA Vision and Mission.
- Regulates policy decisions and ensures adherence to governance and best practice.
- Chairs and manages the Training Committee by allocating duties and tasks.
Trainer Management
- Manages the trainer list (with WFTGA Administrator and Trainer Representative).
- Liaises with the Training Division, including requests for re-admission (with Trainer Representative).
- Allocates jobs and assignments to trainers in accordance with requirements and work rota (with non-trainer ExBo TC member).
- Develops opportunities for experience for trainers.
Training Operations
- Responds to training queries (with WFTGA Administrator).
- Prepares training proposals, costings and contracts for external and internal clients and implements and manages them.
- Responds and processes requests for course accreditation and course endorsement and implements and manages them.
- Liaises with and assists International Training Centre/s and (potential) Course Hosts.
- Manages training materials and documents, and sets WFTGA exam papers.
Events and Programmes
- Oversees the organisation of the biennial Trainer Convention.
- Oversees WFTGA’s CPD programme and training-related (online) engagements.
- Equips and assists training-related working groups.
Communications and Reporting
- Contributes training-related content for the WFTGA website and social media.
- Writes the monthly Training Matters newsletter and inputs into Guidelines International.
- Compiles training reports to ExBo, including summaries of work carried out.
Financial Management
- Manages training-related finances and keeps backup records.
Time Commitment
- Regular weeks: 15–20 hours per week
- Peak periods: 40+ hours per week (before and during conventions, major events)
Portfolio Public Relations
Role Overview
The Public Relations & Digital Communications portfolio holder is responsible for WFTGA’s external communications presence, managing the Federation’s digital platforms, visual identity, and member communications. This role ensures consistent, professional, and engaging communication across all channels.
The portfolio encompasses the WFTGA website, newsletters, social media channels, and corporate design materials. The role requires both strategic thinking and hands-on execution to maintain and enhance WFTGA’s public profile and member engagement.
Core Responsibilities
Website Management
- Maintain and update the WFTGA website (WordPress)
- Ensure content is current, accurate, and professionally presented
- Coordinate with other portfolio holders to publish relevant content
- Manage member directory and public-facing information
- Ensure website security, performance, and accessibility
- Coordinate with technical support for complex updates or issues
Newsletter (Guidelines Internetion@l)
- Plan, edit, and distribute the WFTGA newsletter
- Solicit content from member associations and ExBo colleagues
- Ensure consistent quality, style, and branding
- Manage the newsletter distribution list and platform (Mailchimp or similar)
- Track engagement metrics and report on newsletter performance
Social Media
- Manage WFTGA’s social media presence (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X/Twitter)
- Develop and execute social media content calendars
- Create engaging content that promotes the profession and Federation
- Monitor and respond to comments and messages
- Coordinate social media campaigns with other portfolios (especially ITGD)
- Track social media metrics and report on performance
Corporate Design
- Maintain and enforce WFTGA’s visual identity and brand guidelines
- Create templates and branded materials for Federation use
- Ensure consistent branding across all communications
- Develop graphics and visual content for various purposes
- Support other portfolio holders with design needs
Content Strategy
- Develop an overall content strategy aligned with WFTGA’s mission
- Ensure consistent messaging across all platforms
- Identify opportunities to showcase member success stories
- Report regularly to ExBo on communications performance
Required Skills and Qualifications
Essential
- Active, qualified tourist guide with current membership in a WFTGA member association
- Excellent command of English (written and spoken)
- Strong writing and editing skills
- Experience with social media management
- Basic website management skills (WordPress)
- Eye for design and visual communication
- Ability to meet regular content deadlines
Desirable
- Professional experience in marketing, communications, or PR
- Graphic design skills (Adobe Creative Suite, Canva)
- Experience with email marketing platforms (Mailchimp)
- Photography or video production skills
- SEO knowledge
Technical Requirements
- WordPress content management
- Social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X/Twitter)
- Email marketing (Mailchimp or similar)
- Graphic design tools (Canva, Adobe Express, or Adobe Creative Suite)
- Google Workspace (Gmail, Drive, Docs)
- Basic image editing
- Video conferencing (Zoom)
Time Commitment
- Regular weeks: 8–12 hours per week
- Peak periods: 20+ hours per week (major campaigns, conventions, ITGD)
- Note: Social media requires regular attention throughout the week
Portfolio Convention
Role Overview
The Convention Coordinator is responsible for managing the WFTGA biennial convention process, from the bidding phase through to the successful delivery of each convention. This role serves as the primary liaison between the Executive Board and convention hosts, ensuring that conventions meet WFTGA standards and deliver value to participants.
The Convention Coordinator oversees the bidding process, reviews proposals, supports hosts during preparation, and ensures smooth convention delivery. Under the new partnership model, WFTGA handles more of the administrative and financial burden whilst hosts focus on creating exceptional local experiences.
Core Responsibilities
Bidding Process Management
- Maintain and update the convention bidding documentation
- Organise information webinars for potential bidders
- Receive, review, and evaluate convention bids in conjunction with the Bidding Committee
- Coordinate with the President and Emeritus Presidents on bid assessment
- Prepare bid presentations and materials for the General Assembly
- Support bidders throughout the application process
Convention Host Liaison
- Serve as primary ExBo contact for convention host teams
- Conduct or coordinate site inspection visits
- Monitor convention preparation progress and timelines
- Provide guidance on WFTGA standards and expectations
- Facilitate communication between hosts and other ExBo members
- Advise on cultural sensitivities and regional considerations
Convention Programme Coordination
- Coordinate the development of convention programme content with hosts
- Liaise with the Training Division on pre-convention training courses
- Work with the President on speaker selection and main programme
- Oversee pre-programme and post-programme development
- Ensure convention theme integration across all programme elements
Reporting and Documentation
- Report regularly to the Executive Board on bidding and convention matters
- Maintain convention documentation and historical records
- Document lessons learned from each convention for future improvement
Required Skills and Qualifications
Essential
- Active, qualified tourist guide with current membership in a WFTGA member association
- Good command of English (written and spoken)
- Experience attending at least one WFTGA Convention (ideally two or more)
- Strong project management and organisational skills
- Good interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to work with diverse teams across time zones
- Cultural sensitivity and awareness
Desirable
- Previous experience organising conferences or major events
- Previous WFTGA ExBo experience or involvement in convention hosting
- Experience with the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) industry
- Additional languages beyond English
Technical Requirements
- Proficiency with Google Workspace (Gmail, Drive, Docs)
- Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Video conferencing (Zoom)
- WhatsApp for team communication
Time Commitment
- Regular weeks: 5–10 hours per week
- Peak periods: 20+ hours per week (during bidding process, site inspections, convention week)
- Travel: Site inspection visits (1–2 per cycle), attendance at conventions
Portfolio Membership
Role Overview
The Membership Coordinator is responsible for all matters pertaining to WFTGA membership, including recruitment, retention, and member services. This portfolio is essential for growing the Federation’s global reach and ensuring member associations receive value from their membership. The role serves as the primary point of contact for membership enquiries and supports the development of new tourist guide associations worldwide.
Working closely with the Secretary and Area Representatives, the Membership Coordinator maintains accurate membership records, develops new membership benefits, and coordinates outreach to potential members in underrepresented regions. This role is crucial for expanding WFTGA’s influence as the global voice for professional tourist guides.
Core Responsibilities
Membership Administration
- Maintain an accurate and up-to-date list of all current members
- Process and review membership applications in coordination with ExBo
- Answer membership enquiries promptly and professionally
- Provide membership information and application forms to prospective members
- Monitor membership status and follow up on renewals
- Coordinate with Treasurer on membership fee payments and arrears
Membership Development
- Develop strategies to recruit new member associations
- Identify regions and countries without WFTGA representation and target outreach
- Support the establishment of new tourist guide associations in underserved areas
- Develop and promote Individual Membership for guides in countries without associations
- Create and implement membership retention strategies
Member Benefits & Services
- Research and develop new membership benefits
- Promote existing benefits to ensure members are aware and utilising them
- Coordinate the WFTGA Cultour Card programme with museums and attractions
- Gather feedback from members on services and improvements needed
- Develop partnerships that provide value to member associations
Area Representative Coordination
- Coordinate and support the network of WFTGA Area Representatives
- Ensure Area Representatives maintain regular contact with members in their regions
- Receive and consolidate reports from Area Representatives
- Identify gaps in Area Representative coverage and propose appointments
- Support Area Representatives in recruiting new members in their regions
Communication & Engagement
- Welcome new members and provide orientation information
- Conduct periodic member surveys to assess satisfaction and needs
- Support organisation of Association Journeys and member engagement events
- Contribute membership-related content for Guidelines Internetion@l and website
- Represent WFTGA membership interests at ExBo meetings
Reporting & Documentation
- Prepare membership statistics and reports for ExBo and General Assembly
- Track membership trends and provide analysis
- Document membership procedures and best practices
- Report to President and ExBo on membership matters quarterly
Required Skills and Qualifications
Essential
- Active qualified tourist guide with current membership in a WFTGA member association
- Good command of written and spoken English
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Experience in membership management or customer relationship roles
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to work with people from diverse cultural backgrounds
- Proactive and self-motivated approach
Desirable
- Experience in association management or non-profit organisations
- Previous involvement as WFTGA Area Representative or Delegate
- Experience with membership database systems (MembershipWorks or similar)
- Marketing or business development experience
- Additional languages beyond English
- Understanding of tourist guide association structures internationally
Technical Requirements
- Proficiency with Google Workspace (Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets)
- Video conferencing platforms (Zoom, Google Meet)
- WhatsApp for communication with members and Area Representatives
- MembershipWorks or willingness to learn membership management systems
- Basic spreadsheet skills for membership tracking and analysis
- CRM concepts and contact management
Time Commitment
Period | Expected Hours/Week |
Regular operations | 6-8 hours |
Membership renewal period (Oct-Nov) | 10-12 hours |
Pre-convention period | 10-12 hours |
Convention week | Full-time |
ExBo Member with open portfolio
Role Overview
This position offers an opportunity for a motivated tourist guide to join the WFTGA Executive Board and contribute fresh ideas, new initiatives, or specialised expertise to advance the Federation’s mission. Unlike the defined portfolio positions, this role allows candidates to propose their own area of focus based on identified needs, personal expertise, or innovative ideas that could benefit WFTGA and its members.
The successful candidate will work collaboratively with other ExBo members whilst developing and implementing their proposed initiatives. This position is ideal for individuals who see opportunities for WFTGA to grow, innovate, or improve in areas not currently covered by existing portfolios, or who bring unique skills and perspectives that could benefit the global tourist guide community.
Potential Focus Areas
Candidates may propose their own focus area, or consider initiatives in areas such as:
Strategic Development
- Partnership development with tourism industry organisations
- Sponsorship and fundraising initiatives
- Strategic planning and organisational development
- Research and data collection on the guiding profession
Member Services & Support
- Legal and regulatory advocacy for tourist guides
- Professional standards and certification development
- Association capacity building and best practice sharing
- Guide welfare and support programmes
Innovation & Technology
- Digital transformation initiatives
- Technology tools for tourist guides
- Online community building and engagement
- Knowledge management and resource development
Sustainability & Ethics
- Sustainable tourism initiatives
- Ethics and Code of Guiding Practice implementation
- Heritage preservation and cultural sensitivity programmes
- Climate action and environmental responsibility
Regional Development
- Development initiatives for specific underrepresented regions
- Youth engagement and next-generation guide development
- Cross-border collaboration projects
- Language-specific support and resources
Core Responsibilities
Initiative Development
- Develop and present a detailed plan for your proposed portfolio/initiative
- Set measurable goals and timelines for implementation
- Identify resources and support needed from WFTGA
- Report regularly on progress and outcomes
Executive Board Participation
- Attend and actively participate in monthly ExBo meetings
- Contribute to collective ExBo decision-making
- Support other ExBo members with their portfolios as needed
- Represent WFTGA at events and in interactions with members
Collaboration & Communication
- Work collaboratively with relevant stakeholders on your initiative
- Engage member associations in your proposed activities
- Share progress and learnings with the wider WFTGA community
- Build networks and partnerships to support your initiative
Required Skills and Qualifications
Essential
- Active qualified tourist guide with current membership in a WFTGA member association
- Good command of written and spoken English
- Clear vision and ideas for contributing to WFTGA’s development
- Initiative and self-motivation to develop and implement new projects
- Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse international team
- Strong communication and presentation skills
Desirable
- Relevant expertise or experience related to your proposed focus area
- Previous involvement with WFTGA (conventions, training, Area Representative, etc.)
- Project management experience
- Network of contacts relevant to your proposed initiative
- Experience in non-profit or association management
Technical Requirements
- Proficiency with Google Workspace (Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets)
- Video conferencing platforms (Zoom, Google Meet)
- WhatsApp for ExBo communication
- Additional technical skills relevant to your proposed focus area
Time Commitment
Time commitment will vary depending on the nature of your proposed initiative. As a minimum:
- Monthly ExBo meetings: 1.5-2 hours
- Regular portfolio work: 5-8 hours per week minimum
- Convention attendance: Full participation required
- Additional time for specific initiatives as needed
Travel: Convention attendance required. Additional travel may be needed depending on the nature of your proposed initiative.
Call for Candidates
During the next General Assembly, held in conjunction with the WFTGA Convention 2026 in Japan, the WFTGA Executive Board will be newly elected. We warmly encourage all Member Associations to consider suitable candidates and to motivate committed members to stand for election.
Application Procedure and Deadline
Applications may be submitted no later than 30 January 2026 12:00 CET. After the deadline, the Election Committee will review all applications received and will guide the process through the next steps.
Online Participation and Election Schedule
It is not necessary to attend the Convention in person in order to stand for election — participation is also possible online. At present, the candidate presentations are expected to take place on 8 February at approximately 17:00 (Japan time), with the elections planned for 12 February at 9:00 (Japan time), with maybe a Q&A for the candidates. The detailed timetable will be communicated to all candidates in good time.
Portfolio-Based Elections
For this election cycle, we intend to refine the application procedure so that candidates apply directly for one of the portfolios listed below, and are then elected specifically for that portfolio.
Selection Criteria
In the application, we are looking not only at personality and commitment, but also at relevant skills and experience: What has the candidate already done in this field? What evidence, results, or references can be demonstrated? What is working well in this area, what needs improvement — and what vision does the candidate bring for the future development of the portfolio?
Term of Office and Future Reforms
Successful candidates will be elected for a two-year term (until 2028). In parallel, we are preparing a constitutional update so that from 2028 onwards, portfolios and the election process may be further modernised.
Voluntary Engagement and Possible Compensation
All engagement within WFTGA is, in principle, voluntary. In the past, we aimed to cover participation in conventions; this approach — as well as possible compensation when specific tasks are undertaken or travel is required on behalf of WFTGA — is currently under discussion, but no final decision has yet been made.
Submission Form
Thank you
Presidents Emeritus:
- 1985-1987 Yossi Grau (R.I.P.)
- 1987-1993 Jane Orde (R.I.P.)
- 1993-1999 Titina Loizides
- 1999-2001 Deborah Androus
- 2001-2003 Elisabeth Schroder
- 2003-2007 Ruby Roy
- 2007-2013 Rosalind Newlands OBE
- 2013-2017 Felicitas Wressnig
- 2017 –2024 Alushca Ritchie
