By Bev Fearis, published 7/05/20
Just under 700 delegates have signed up for The Institute of Travel Management’s first ever virtual annual conference next week.
The two-day conference was due to take place at the Brighton Hilton Metropole, where it was also held last year, but had to be transformed into an online event due to the coronavirus lockdown.
The cost to register for the event was reduced to reflect the change, particularly as elements such as the Gala Dinner weren’t possible.
Taking place on May 12-13, speakers lined up include Paul Abbott, CEO American Express Global Business Travel, Robert Isom, President American Airlines Group and American Airlines, Bob Somers, Senior Vice President Global Sales Delta Air Lines, and Caroline Strachan, Managing Partner Festive Road.
But ITM warned delegates the agenda is subject to change and that during the COVID-19 pandemic ‘for obvious reasons’ it is unable to guarantee speakers on the day.
The planned conference programme also includes a ‘Virtual Happy Hour’ with ITM Chair Karen Hutchings and a ‘Treasure Hunt’ for the chance to win free Business Membership worth up to £299 plus VAT.
The second day will start with a ‘Morning Meditation’ and after lunch there’ll be a 30-minute workout to kick starts the afternoon.
The theme of the event is Thrive as ITM ‘looks to ensure the continuing health and development of our business travel community and a sustainable future for our industry’.
