Amex claims 73% Q1 improvement
New sales wins and renewals – signed contracts and letters of intent – increased by 73% in the first quarter over the same period last year, American Express Business Travel has claimed.
New contracts or extended agreements have been struck with organisations such as Bentley, Bobcat and GEA Dutch Holding from the automotive and manufacturing sectors; Rabobank, a full-range financial services provider; Cadbury; global IT services provider CGI Group; Medical Counsel of Canada; Rip Curl; Manpower; Conseil de l’Europe, Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency, and Swedish Prison and Probation Service & Transport Service; and GSM Association.
The company has also made changes to its senior management structure.
Chief operating officer Priyan Fernando also becomes president overseeing its Customer Group, reporting to Global Travel Services president Charles Petruccelli. In addition to retaining his current responsibility for leading global operations, Fernando now adds client management and advisory services.
Andy McGraw is appointed to the newly created position of senior vice president and general manager, worldwide sales.
Lisa Durocher is promoted to senior vice president, marketing and innovation.
Andrew Winterton retains his role as senior vice president and general manager, global supplier relations, partner network and Latin America and the Caribbean.
Petruccelli said: “Although economic stresses have placed pressure on the bottom-line for corporations worldwide, business travel remains an essential component of effectively managing and growing a business.
“Companies can keep travellers on the road by managing travel costs in a smart and careful way.â€
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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