TAT governor selection committee president Kriangsak Lohachala said the three insiders in contention are Phornsiri Manoharn, deputy governor for domestic markets; Surapol Savetaserani, deputy governor for marketing communications; and Santichai Eauchongprasit, deputy governor for administrative affairs.

Among outsiders making a bid for the top TAT job are ML Hathaijanok Kritakara, member of the Thai Hotels Association's executive committee and general manager for corporate affairs at Accor Asia Pacific; and Supong Limthanakul, vice president of Bangkok University.

A former member of Parliament for Bang Kapi district, Pimol Srivikorn, has also applied, as has a former diplomat, Sorayuth Phromphot, ex-ambassador to Moscow.

Other applicants include Praphan Assawa-aree, former managing director of NCC Management; Pitsanu Kongkhanphai, managing director of the 24 Jan Group and president of the American Travel Association (Thailand Chapter); Chaiyut Tangkamoltham, chief executive director and director of the Haco Group; Patima Tatikom, owner of an event-organising company; Pisit Prueksanusak; and Kanjanarat Sahasakmontri.

Also applying are Nutcharee Pulkaew, director of sales and marketing for Business Air Centre Co; Therawut Jitratkosol; and MR Dumrongdis Diskul, managing director of Maneeya Realty Co, Maneeya Concept Co and MC Shop Co.

The deadline for submission of applications was yesterday.

Kriangsak said former MCOT president Mingkwan Sangsuwan had not applied, thus ending speculation. Mingkwan resigned as MCOT president last month. As president, Mingkwan played a key role in successful national tourism campaigns, including the New Year countdown.

Suchat Sritama

The Nation