James Thurlby, President of SKÅL International Bangkok has been appointed as the new President of SKÅL International Thailand following the resignation of outgoing president Kevin Rautenbach who now takes up a new role as director of the organisation’s newly formed International Executive Committee.

James Thurlby who is Marketing Manager at Move Ahead Media – a digital marketing company – has been President of SKÅL Bangkok since 2020 during which time he has steered the club from strength to strength, driving positive change and growth of its membership. He has implemented innovative strategies to enhance the Club’s membership experience, nurtured strong relationships with key stakeholders, and championed initiatives to promote sustainability within the organisation.

James also serves as Co-Chair of the SKÅL International IT Committee, a prestigious role that highlights his expertise in digital marketing and influence in the field.  His commitment to SKAL was recognized last year when he was named an Exemplary Skalleague by SKÅL International for his services to the organisation.

Meanwhile, commenting on James’ new role, Kevin Rautenbach said: “James is an accomplished leader with over 20 years in the hospitality industry and more recently in digital marketing.  His experience here in Thailand makes him well versed in the local market dynamics and cultural nuances, I wish him continued success as he now takes the helm of the national committee.”

Replacing James as President of SKÅL International Bangkok is  Kanokros Sakdanares [Khun Aom] who is currently the club’s Director of PR & Marketing.

Khun Aom is a PR and Marketing consultant who was formerly at Centara Hotels & Resorts.  For SKÅL Bangkok she plays a key role in promoting membership and events, and in organising the club’s regular Business Speaker Lunches which have been earning a reputation for their high-profile speakers from senior figures in the Government and from the travel and tourism sector.

SKÅL International Bangkok recently  celebrated the Club’s  achievement in winning ‘Best Hotel & Networking Group 2023’ award from LUXlife Magazine.

Commenting on Khun Aom’s appointment, James Thurlby said: “I am extremely proud and honoured to pass the baton of President to my highly capable and talented Skalleague Khun Aom.  She exemplifies what we have been trying to achieve here at SKÅL Bangkok in promoting leadership amongst our female members and building a more diverse, dynamic and representative profile for our organization.”