By Bev Fearis, published 20/01/21
The Institute of Travel Management has launched ‘ITM Community’, a programme of initiatives to help buyers and suppliers who have been impacted by Covid-19.
ITM Community is designed not only to support those who have been furloughed or displaced but also to provide education and guidance to members who have retained their jobs but are increasingly under pressure to justify their role.
CEO Scott Davies said: “As our industry tackles a third UK lockdown, some of our members who previously may not have been furloughed or displaced now find themselves in this position.
“Moreover, some of our members are sadly furlough veterans, but this furlough may not resemble previous experiences, when reduced hours were more commonplace rather than a complete absence. The Covid-19 pandemic has also led to almost half of buyers feeling increased pressure to justify their roles within their organisation as travel came to a complete stop.
“Caring for our community has become even more important since the start of the pandemic. We have strived to support our members with access to vital knowledge sharing and resources throughout 2020 and are committed to introducing yet further supportive initiatives in 2021. Hence, we are bringing all these initiatives together under the ‘ITM Community’ banner.”
ITM is offering complimentary ‘Business’ level membership from now until the end of April to new or existing members who are currently on furlough or displaced.
This gives unlimited access to all ITM resources, educational opportunities and virtual events, including attendance at the 2021 annual ITM Conference ‘Revive’.
ITM has also expanded its virtual event programme for the first half of 2021 by 25% year-on-year.
This includes Buyer Insight sessions and Buyer Knowledge exchanges, which will run bi-monthly in the first half of 2021, with capacity to increase frequency to flex with members’ needs.
ITM has also launched its Mentoring Programme for 2021 to support members with their career development and personal growth.
