Eddy Brosse leaves a lasting legacy as Skål International Phuket President, having overseen remarkable growth and transformation together thanks to a remarkable team at the helm of the Phuket club. When he took the reins in late 2022, the club had just 34 members. Today, it boasts over 60 and is on track to becoming the largest Skål International club in Thailand.
“We re-established Skål International Phuket on the local networking calendar as the island’s only mixed professional club,” Eddy shared. Their efforts prioritised diversity in genders, age and nationalities while striving to increase Thai representation up to 40% and maintain quality. Under his leadership, the club’s committee introduced a vibrant annual calendar of monthly events, doubling the attendance in just two years.
Despite the challenges faced due to a restricted committee, the results speak for themselves, with all nationalities mixing happily at each event and attendance having doubled, while members keep sharing quality stories of new partnerships and collaborations. “We made a great, diverse team that delivered real results,” Eddy reflected.
As the incoming National President of Skål International Thailand, Eddy’s vision expands to uniting clubs across the country and borders, building brand awareness and closer ties to government officials and similar associations. Next year will also see the implementation of clear, ethical standards for all clubs in the country. He aims to reconnect Skål with the tourism industry’s up-and-coming generations, positioning it as a true “trusted voice”.
Eddy is very enthusiastic about the future: “We had an amazing Skål International Thailand Forum this year with the Chiang Mai, Krabi, Samui and Phuket clubs, taking the time to reflect on who we are, where we are coming from and where we should be heading toward.
“It was necessary, and we achieved beyond my expectations on mapping out our way forward together. We have a brilliant team of new young Presidents coming on and I am already very excited to take Skål International Thailand up to the next level with this great team!”
Bas van Straten: Building on Success
With 19 years of membership and three years as Treasurer and acting Vice President, Bas van Straten steps into the presidency with a deep understanding of Skål International Phuket and a strong experience within the past effective committee. His tenure as Treasurer brought structure to the club, including improved accounting systems and formalised association status (the first club in Thailand).
Bas is committed to strengthening member connections and delivering value. Recognising a desire among members for more industry insights, he plans to introduce expert speakers and partner with associations and Chambers of Commerce to raise Skål International’s profile. “While friendship is vital, many members want more industry updates,” Bas explained.
To attract new members, particularly young professionals, Bas will engage universities and HR departments, encouraging younger members to lead these efforts. “This approach will make it easier to connect with potential recruits,” he said.
Collaboration with Eddy Brosse will be essential. By sharing best practices and aligning with Skål International Thailand’s national strategy, Bas aims to play his part into unity across Thailand’s clubs and boost corporate involvement.
Looking Ahead
Eddy Brosse’s achievements have set a strong foundation for growth, while Bas van Straten’s vision brings fresh energy to the club. Together, their leadership embodies Skål International’s core values of friendship and professional excellence.
As Skål International Phuket moves forward, it continues to exemplify the power of collaboration, diversity, and sustainability in the tourism industry, within a professional yet casual atmosphere of camaraderie.
Do connect with any of them for details on how to join great monthly events and superb local connections:
Phuket club: info@skalphuket.org
Bas van Straten: president@skalphuket.org
Eddy Brosse: president@skalthailand.com