Yossi Fatal Steps Down as CEO After 11 Years: Successor Announced
During a challenging time for Israel's inbound tourism industry, Guy Kelner has been appointed as the new CEO of the Chamber of Inbound Tourism Organizers, succeeding Yossi Fatal, who held the position for 11 years.
The management of the Chamber of Inbound Tourism Organizers in Israel announced on Wednesday the appointment of Guy Kelner as the chamber's CEO. Kelner, who will assume the position in a few weeks, succeeds Yossi Fatal, who requested to end his 11-year tenure. Fatal will oversee the transition and onboarding process.
Kelner brings over two decades of extensive managerial, business, and public experience. His background includes familiarity with the tourism industry, as well as significant expertise in managing organizations, business development, government relations, and leading public campaigns.
Currently, Kelner serves as Deputy CEO of the Rishon LeZion municipal company, where he oversees core operations, business development, and the creation of new revenue streams. Previously, he spent a decade in senior roles at the Publicis Israel group, including CEO of the consulting firm "Publicis Agenda," Deputy CEO for Business Development, and CEO of the advertising agency Leo Burnett.
Kelner is no stranger to the tourism sector; he served as Chairman of Issta from 2002 to 2004. Throughout his career, he has held various management roles, including CEO of the advertising agency Inbar Merhav Shaked, CEO of Job Tov, and CEO of N.K.S.
In addition to his business career, Kelner has extensive public and municipal experience. He has been a member of the Ramat HaSharon City Council for 17 years, serving part of that time as Deputy Mayor. His public service includes membership in various municipal committees, including the local planning and building committee.
Previously, he served as Chairman of the National Union of Israeli Students and Chairman of the Tel Aviv University Student Union. Kelner holds a Master's degree in Public Policy and a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from Tel Aviv University.
Lior Gelfand, Chairman of the Chamber of Inbound Tourism Organizers in Israel, stated:
"Guy is taking office at a particularly significant and sensitive time for the inbound tourism industry. Despite the great challenges we face, we believe the coming period should be one of rehabilitation and rebuilding. Guy's management experience and his familiarity with the business and government sectors provide him with the tools to lead the chamber. He will also benefit from the vast knowledge accumulated by Yossi Fatal, who will support him during the transition."
Guy Kelner added:
"I thank the chamber's management for their trust. I am entering this role with a sense of great responsibility. Inbound tourism is an economic and national asset for the State of Israel, and our goal is to work with chamber members and the government to bring tourists back and rebuild a strong, stable, and growing industry."
