A&K Veterans Kath Fok & Gerald Hatherly Announce Retirement

At Abercrombie & Kent’s 100 event in Chicago this week, long-time Asia DMC executives Gerald Hatherly and Kath Fok announced their retirement, marking the end of their combined 83-year journey representing the destination.

Fok, director, Northeast Asia, began her journey with the DMC as an office manager in 1983. Over the years, she rose through the ranks, taking on leadership responsibilities and helping grow the brand in China and Southeast Asia. Most recently, she served as director, North East Asia DMCs.

Hatherly joined a few years after Fok, working as a tour leader and China specialist. He worked closely with Fok as A&K’s presence in the region grew. His most recent title is executive director, North East Asia DMCs.

The two gave a presentation on North East Asia during the first-day general session at the A&K 100 event, before announcing their retirement at the gala dinner that evening.

“Kathy and I have worked side by side for years, meeting with people from far and wide, and despite the differences we sometimes had, I am lucky to have her by my side,” said Hatherly. “A combined 83 years of travel is more remarkable than it seems. The challenges have been varied, from SARS [to] Covid and so many more. But through this all, we worked together, which has brought us to this day. We thank you all for the support, the friendship and the shared trust.”

Fok and Hatherly’s last day with A&K will be on Dec.31, 2026. They will be succeeded by Ryan Lin, the general manager of A&K Hong Kong. Lin will take over as director, North East Asia DMCs on Oct. 1, 2026.

“I’m [one of] the few fortunate ones to [have been] mentored by Kath and Gerald when I began my career with A&K 13 years ago … From the bottom of my heart, I say thank you for everything you’ve done for me and for us. Everyone here in the room — our valuable partners [and] our team — is committed to continuing the good work with you all,” said Lin.