Focus Travel Partnership has appointed Neil Armorgie as Chair, succeeding Adrian Parkes, who returned to lead the consortium during a period of transition.
Armorgie has longstanding links with the independent TMC consortium, having worked alongside its founding partners when Focus Travel Partnership was established in 1999. He has remained closely connected with the organisation throughout his career.
Commenting on his appointment, Armorgie said: “I am deeply honoured and thrilled to step into the position of Chair. Having been part of the original team at the inception of Focus Travel Partnership, I have enjoyed a close working relationship with the central team and our individual TMC Partners for many years.
“Focus stands unmatched in corporate travel as a cohesive, collective buying network. I look forward to working with the team and the Partners for our continued growth and ensuring our strategy remains firmly rooted in serving the TMC community.
“Focus is the natural home for forward-thinking and ambitious SME TMCs, having built an enviable reputation by delivering for its airline and other supplier partners, as well as being highly regarded for introducing new technology in the corporate SME travel sector. We will continue to be laser-focused on driving increased sales for our suppliers.”
Armorgie brings more than 30 years’ experience in the travel industry. He spent 18 years as CEO of Worldwide Independent Travel Network (WIN), overseeing the growth of the organisation from four members to more than 6,000 travel agencies across 70 countries. Following Advantage Travel Partnership’s acquisition of WIN, he became Corporate Travel Director. His previous roles also include Travel Director at Avios and CEO of Snowstorm Technologies.
Paul Spencer, Managing Director of Focus Travel Partnership, said: “We are delighted to welcome Neil as Chair. His extensive industry experience, strategic vision and unique understanding of Focus Travel Partnership’s heritage and core values make him exceptionally well placed to lead the Board of Directors.
“We also extend our thanks to Adrian for his dedication and leadership during his time as Chair. His contribution has been invaluable, and we wish him every happiness in his well-earned retirement.”
Parkes returned as Chair during a transition period and is now stepping down to resume his semi-retirement.
Focus Travel Partnership said Armorgie’s appointment marks the next stage of the organisation’s development as it continues to support independent TMCs through collaboration, innovation and collective buying power.
