American Express Global Business Travel names new CEO
American Express Global Business Travel (GBT) has appointed Paul Abbott as CEO to replace Doug Anderson who is stepping down after three years.
Abbot, who is currently Amex chief commercial officer, global commercial services, will take over on October 1 with a transition period during which Anderson will continue to advise GBT.
Greg O’Hara, executive chairman of the GBT Board, said: "Doug steered GBT through the acquisition of HRG last year, which was the industry’s largest ever, as well as a full cultural transformation that has led to 18,000 of the most engaged team members in the business.
"He leaves GBT in an outstanding place to build on its strengths as it continues to invest in a bright future."
The company said Abbott’s experience at American Express is a strong fit for GBT ‘both because of the strategic relationship between the companies and their common focus on the customer experience’.
"It is a privilege to lead a talented team committed to delivering exceptional service and investing significantly in growth and technology-led innovation" said Abbott. "I look forward to engaging with colleagues, customers, and suppliers as we collaborate to advance the business travel experience together."
Abbott has spent 18 years in the travel business, having started his career at British Airways and working in the corporate travel business at American Express. with a transition period during which Anderson will continue to advise GBT.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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