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Be Inclusive: A Path to Thriving in Business Travel

In this feature series, GBTA’s Board of Directors share their perspectives on topics that matter most to members, the industry and the way forward for business travel. Today’s guest author is GBTA Board member Carlos Almendros, Director of Travel, Payments, Marketing and Communications at Cisco.

Our industry is built on relationships. As someone who has spent decades in this field and works for a company that celebrates diversity, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of inclusivity. It is one of the key reasons I felt compelled to put my name forward to serve on this remarkable GBTA Board of Directors.

I began my career as a travel consultant at a leisure travel agency. Even then, I recognized how vital it was to surround myself with diverse voices and perspectives. Those early experiences taught me that inclusion isn’t just a feel-good concept; it’s a practical tool for success. By bringing different people to the table, I gained fresh ideas and insights, which in turn enhanced my skills and broadened my horizons.

Over time, I realized that inclusivity isn’t just about what you gain personally – it’s about what you give back. For me, there’s no greater sense of fulfilment than creating opportunities for others to contribute their unique talents. Whether it’s assembling diverse teams or collaborating with colleagues from different backgrounds, I’ve seen how inclusion drives creativity, fosters innovation and ultimately leads to better outcomes for everyone involved.

Fast forward three decades, and it’s clear that the travel industry has undergone a massive transformation. Gone are the days of paper tickets, black screens and the box of airline plates we used to lock away in safes. No more OAG guides sitting on the shelf or travel brochures neatly arranged in rows.

And yet, despite all the changes in technology and tools, one thing remains constant: the strength and value of the diverse people who make our industry thrive. It’s the people who share ideas, challenge the status quo and have each other’s backs. It’s the people who take bold steps to move our industry forward.

From the very start of my career, I understood the importance of fostering an inclusive environment-not just for my own professional growth but also to expand my understanding of different cultures, perspectives and ideas. Looking back on 36 years in the travel industry, I can confidently say that being inclusive has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey.