Jamisha B Breland
Owner and CEO; Amaren Transportation & Management LLC
Biographie professionnelle
Jamisha Breland is the Owner & CEO of AMAREN Chauffeured Transportation & Management LLC, a Charlotte, NC and Charleston, SC-based company that has been a leader in the transportation and management industry for over a decade. Under Jamisha’s visionary leadership, AMAREN has delivered world-class service to clients across the globe, ranging from corporate groups to large associations. She has mastered the art of personalization, ensuring each client experience is tailored with precision and care. More than just a transportation provider, AMAREN offers a partnership experience that sets the standard for the industry.
Jamisha’s expertise lies in coordinating large group movements and corporate special events, where her company has successfully transported hundreds of thousands of clients over the last ten years. Known for her superior organizational skills and logistical precision, she consistently delivers flawless execution, earning a reputation as a trusted partner. Her laser focus, unmatched work ethic, and attention to client needs inspire every team she leads.
In addition to running AMAREN, Jamisha dedicates her time to mentoring and consulting for smaller luxury ground transportation companies. She empowers these businesses to scale strategically while staying true to their core values and branding. Jamisha is also an active participant in both local and national industry associations, sharing her expertise, offering financial support, and giving back to the industry she loves.
Jamisha Breland is a powerhouse in the ground transportation industry. Her impactful work and unwavering commitment to excellence make her an influential force whose contributions are impossible to overlook.
Déclaration de plateforme
Vision
My vision for the GBTA is one where collaboration and innovation are at the forefront of our mission. As we navigate the complexities of a post-pandemic world, it is essential that we adapt and evolve to meet the changing needs of our industry. Together, we can strengthen our community, enhance our services, and ensure that the voices of all members are heard.
Key Goals
1. Advocacy and Representation: I am dedicated to being a strong advocate for allied members, ensuring perspectives and needs are prioritized in GBTA initiatives and policies. The insights will shape our strategies as we work to address industry challenges.
2. Embracing Technology: In a rapidly changing environment, leveraging technology is crucial. I will champion initiatives that explore innovative solutions to streamline processes, improve traveler experiences, and enhance operational efficiency across our networks.
3. Sustainability Commitment: The future of business travel must prioritize sustainability. I will work towards promoting eco-friendly practices and partnerships that benefit both our industry and the planet, making sustainability a core value of our association.
4. Networking and Collaboration: Building strong relationships is vital for our success. I aim to create more opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among members, fostering a supportive community that drives growth and innovation.
5. Education and Development: I will advocate for enhanced educational programs and resources that equip members with the skills and knowledge to navigate the evolving landscape of business travel. Together, we can foster professional development and continuous learning.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
I believe that diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our strength as an organization. I am committed to promoting a culture where all voices are valued and represented, ensuring that our initiatives reflect the diversity of our members and the clients we serve.
Call to Action
I invite you to join me on this journey to shape the future of the GBTA. Together, we can create an association that not only meets the needs of today but also anticipates the demands of tomorrow. Your support is vital, and I encourage you to share your thoughts and ideas as we move forward.
Laura Choules
Senior Director Global Sales, EMEA; Global Hotel Alliance
Biographie professionnelle
Laura has built a distinguished career in the luxury hospitality sector and recently celebrated 14 years with Global Hotel Alliance (GHA). During her time with the company, she has held a variety of sales roles covering the EMEA and APAC regions. Prior to joining GHA, Laura worked with prestigious hotel brands including Sofitel and Kempinski, gaining valuable on-property experience. In her current role, she oversees strategic partnerships across EMEA, focusing on sales, marketing, and fostering strong relationships with both brand partners and clients. Laura also manages an internal referral tool designed to strengthen connections and drive value across GHA’s member network.
Laura served as Co-Chair of the GBTA Ladders Mentorship Program from 2019 to 2022, working alongside fellow chairs to foster connections and support emerging talent within the travel industry. Since stepping down from the role, she has continued to contribute as a member of the GBTA Ladders Advisory Board, where she is currently serving the third year of her four-year term. Throughout her involvement with the program, Laura has experienced it from multiple perspectives—starting as a mentee, contributing to various committees, and serving as a judge on the final judging panel. In recognition of her dedication and impact, she was awarded the GBTA Ladders Outstanding Contribution Award in 2019.
In 2022, Laura was honoured to be named one of GBTA’s “Top 50 Women in Travel”—a recognition she holds with great pride, especially alongside so many other inspiring women in the industry. That same year, she was also named GBTA’s Volunteer of the Month for October. Her involvement with both GBTA Ladders and WINiT has been driven by genuine passion, and she credits these volunteer experiences with enriching her growth both professionally and personally.
Alongside her involvement with the GBTA Ladders program, Laura has also been an active contributor to GBTA WINiT. As a member of the Global Expansion Committee, she worked closely with peers to broaden access to the mentoring program and engage new participants. Today, Laura continues her commitment to the initiative as a member of the GBTA WINiT EMEA Advisory Board, where she is focused on supporting the program’s growth and impact across the region.
Déclaration de plateforme
It’s an honour to share that I am running for a position on the GBTA Board of Directors. Over the past few years, through various volunteer roles within GBTA, my passion for our industry has only deepened — as has my respect for the powerful voice this association brings to the global business travel community. This decision is not one I’ve made lightly, but one I’ve made with heart. Since becoming a parent, I’ve felt a stronger calling to lead by example — to show my daughter the value of stepping up, speaking out, and helping shape the future of an industry I truly love.
People, Passion, and Perspective — these aren’t just words, but the values I’ll bring to the GBTA Board of Directors if I’m elected. They reflect how I work, what I care about, and the kind of voice I believe our industry needs as we move forward together.
People are at the heart of everything we do. They are the ones who drive progress, spark innovation, and shape the future of our industry. I believe in empowering and inspiring our community — giving people not just a seat at the table, but a voice that’s heard and respected. The future of business travel lies in harnessing our shared passion and diverse perspectives. If elected to the board, I will be your advocate — committed to listening, supporting, and representing your voice. My door will always be open, and I will work with you to ensure your ideas help shape the path ahead for generations to come.
Passion is more than just a feeling — it’s the drive that turns ideas into action. One of the areas I’m most passionate about is mentorship. Being involved in mentorship programs, both within GBTA and my own organization, has had a profound impact on me — boosting my confidence and deepening my commitment to developing others. I believe everyone should have access to a mentor, whether within their workplace or the broader industry. This belief led me to help champion an internal mentoring program at my company, which is now being rolled out so that all employees can benefit from the power of mentoring — either by being mentored or becoming a mentor themselves. It’s this kind of passion-driven progress that I want to bring to the GBTA Board.
Perspective is about more than geography — it’s about embracing different viewpoints, experiences, and ways of thinking. In an industry as globally connected as travel, we need to reflect the diverse voices that shape it. Based in London and leading across the EMEA region, I bring a truly international lens to the table — both from a supplier and hotelier standpoint. At GHA, I work with a diverse collection of hotel brands across multiple markets, giving me insight into the challenges and opportunities our industry faces around the world. I believe this global perspective offers a fresh, balanced voice that can help the GBTA Board better serve our broad and dynamic international community.
As we look to the future of our industry, it’s clear that success will be built on the strength of our people, the passion we bring to our work, and the perspectives that help us grow and evolve together. These are the values I live and lead by — and the commitment I bring to the GBTA community. With your vote, I will be your voice on the Board: listening, collaborating, and championing the global, inclusive, and forward-thinking approach our industry needs. Let’s shape the future of business travel — together.
Kim Conway
Director; Fragomen/Nomadic
Biographie professionnelle
With nearly 30 years of travel industry experience, I have dedicated over 17 years to supporting clients develop international business traveler programs. My expertise lies in immigration compliance, ensuring the streamlined delivery of required documents to ensure traveler compliance, and providing world-class client experience. Since beginning my career in 1996, I have worked in the airline, hotel and immigration industries, supporting travelers to cross international borders. My roles have included Front Desk Operations at Residence Inn by Marriott; Reservations, Sales, and Operations at American Airlines; Vice President of Operations at Travisa Visa Service; and presently, Director for the Americas at Fragomen Nomadic.
I have been an active member and volunteer at GBTA for over 15 years, serving as Board Member and Government Relations Committee Chair for the Chicago Chapter. I have delivered numerous education sessions for GBTA Chapters, regional Conferences and annual Convention, where I have been a regular attendee for the past eleven years. In recent years, I have attended Legislative Summits and Conferences in Brussels, Copenhagen, Munich and Toronto, and am excited for GBTA + VDR Europe Conference 2025 as it revisits Hamburg.
I am a regular participant in GBTA events outside of Chicago, including other Chapter meetings, Leadership Summit 2023 in Los Angeles, and the ‘Ready. Safe. Travel.’ Training Program in which I presented a session on digital nomads.
I continue to be a champion within my organization in obtaining additional support for attendance to GBTA events in Mexico and Singapore and I’m always seeking new ways to partner with our offices in India and the UAE. My strong advocacy of GBTA at Fragomen has led to increased individual membership and sponsorship at local chapters, most recently as main stage sponsor in Copenhagen.
Please visit me on LinkedIn I would be happy to connect – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-conway-41374613
I can also be reached by email – kimconway101@gmail.com or phone 773-440-2018
Déclaration de plateforme
With excitement, I’m thrilled to announce my candidacy for GBTA Board of Directors as Allied Member. With nearly 30 years of travel industry experience, including over 17 years dedicated to supporting clients develop international business traveler programs, I am passionate about advancing our industry. My focus has always been on immigration compliance, streamlining document delivery and ensuring a world-class client experience.
As Director for the Americas at Nomadic, I support global business travel multiple times a day and have been an active member and volunteer for GBTA for over 15 years. Over the last several years, GBTA has reinforced the “Global” message in GBTA, and if elected to the Board of Directors, I am committed to upholding that message. My dedication to education is unwavering, and I vow to bring new and relevant topics to GBTA members, keeping them informed about the latest business travel industry developments.
As a long-term member of the Chicago chapter and having served on the Chicago Board, my focus has been on Government Relations and advocacy, and I will continue to maintain this focus as Allied Member. I am excited to volunteer my energy and expertise to all GBTA members and am ready to listen to the many voices that lead to one purpose.
Throughout my long tenure with the GBTA Chicago chapter, I have been deeply involved in the Government Relations Committee, successfully supporting our chapter achieve partner status each year. When the opportunity to be Co-chair of the Committee and a member of the Board arose, I eagerly stepped up.
I am always ready to volunteer for other committees when needed and I enjoy attending meetings and contributing to education sessions; it is an honor and a privilege to be chosen and trusted to deliver educational content to GBTA members. This year’s Canada Conference in Toronto was an amazing experience, and I look forward to many more events, including the Chicago Board meetings, Monte Carlo night, NJ May meeting, Salt Lake City Travel Show, Legislative Summit, Convention in Denver, WINit Gala, Sustainability Summit and Europe Conference in Hamburg.
My commitment extends to supporting local chapters and international locations by listening to members and sharing chapter successes so that every one of us can deliver the best opportunities to our membership.
I am eager to talk to as many of you as possible over the coming months and am committed to listening to your ideas and raising them to the Board.
I bring a unique set of values to the table. Highly regarded as a “fixer” and often referred to as “Winston Wolf”, I’m passionate about building successful inclusive teams. I know how to lead during challenging times, and I am an “outside the box” thinker, open to ideas, and dedicated to developing and implementing effective plans.
I am excited to bring my strengths and values to the GBTA Board of Directors. I would be thrilled to have your vote. Together, we can continue to elevate the “Global” message in GBTA.
Merci.
Liping Mian
Consultant indépendant
Biographie professionnelle
Liping Mian is an independent consultant specializing in sustainable air travel, with a particular focus on Scope 3 emission reductions through sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) emission attributes for business travel. Since February 2024, she has served on the GBTA APAC Sustainability Committee. She is also currently pursuing a PhD in Peace and Conflict Studies, based in Austria.
From 2014 to 2024, Liping held various roles at two multinational companies in the fields of renewable fuels and sustainable rail solutions, working in both Singapore and Paris. Her responsibilities ranged from selling SAF credits to corporate clients in the Asia-Pacific region to leading corporate communications across Asia-Pacific, and to supporting the secretariat of a corporate foundation.
Before transitioning to the private sector, Liping spent a decade working with non-governmental organizations at both national and international levels. Between 2008 and 2013, she served on the Board of Directors of an international youth organization, including one year as Chairwoman of the Board.
Born and raised in the People’s Republic of China and now a citizen of Singapore, Liping holds a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from Minzu University in Beijing, China, as well as a Master’s degree in Human Rights and Humanitarian Action from SciencesPo Paris. She is currently pursuing her doctoral studies in Austria.
Déclaration de plateforme
Hello everyone, my name is Liping Mian, and it is a great honor to run for the position of Director-at-Large (Allied Member) on the GBTA Board of Directors. This is a meaningful opportunity for me to give back to the global business travel community, and I sincerely appreciate your support in helping me realize this goal.
The business travel industry stands at a pivotal moment. While growth continues globally, we also face an increasingly complex landscape—marked by economic uncertainty, shifting geopolitical dynamics, and the pressing challenges of the climate crisis. In such times, unity and collaboration are more important than ever. I believe GBTA is uniquely positioned to lead the industry through this complexity—by building bridges, inspiring innovation, and supporting its members.
If elected, I would bring a diverse set of experiences and a strong commitment to three core areas:
- Leadership en matière de durabilité – With a background in sustainable aviation and expertise in Scope 3 emission reduction through Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), I aim to support GBTA in driving meaningful climate action and guiding our industry toward a low-carbon future.
- Geopolitical Awareness & Resilience – As a current PhD candidate in Peace and Conflict Studies based in Austria, I bring a unique lens to the industry. I hope to contribute insights that help our community remain agile, informed, and prepared in an ever-evolving global context.
- Asia-Pacific Engagement – Having lived and worked across Asia-Pacific for the past four decades, I am deeply familiar with the region’s opportunities and complexities. I am committed to helping GBTA grow its presence and deepen engagement across APAC markets.
My journey with GBTA began in 2024 when I attended the second APAC Conference in Singapore. It was eye-opening to meet so many passionate professionals and to gain a deeper understanding of this vibrant industry. Since then, I have stayed actively involved—completing GBTA’s Sustainable Business Travel training (even staying up past midnight for sessions!), speaking at the APAC conference, and serving on the GBTA APAC Sustainability Committee.
Running for the Board represents a great next step in my journey of service, contribution, and learning. I hope to bring fresh perspectives, global experience, and a deep sense of purpose to the GBTA community. Thank you for considering my candidacy. If you have any questions or would like to connect, feel free to reach out at liping.mian@gmail.com or via LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lipingmian.
Francis (Frank) Harrison
Regional Security Director, Americas; World Travel Protection, a Zurich Business
Biographie professionnelle
Frank Harrison, Security Director for the Americas at World Travel Protection, a Zurich business, is a champion of holistic Travel Risk Management. With over 20 years of experience in crisis management, emergency operations, and security risk planning, Frank is known for his supportive and unbiased approach to mentorship and idea advocacy. He leverages his graduate degree in Human Security and Peacebuilding to prioritize travelers’ safety and well-being. His expertise spans challenging regions like West Africa, the Middle East, and the Arctic. Beyond his professional life, Frank is an educator at Royal Roads University, where he focuses on Global Institutions and International Law. Passionate about travel, he enjoys exploring new destinations in his free time.
Déclaration de plateforme
Together, We Empower Future-Ready Business Travel.
GBTA allows me a platform to speak to travel and travel risk holistically and without the encumbrance of business development. It gives me the opportunity to share my passion. With over 20 years in journey and travel risk management, I have a unique perspective as both a supplier and buyer of travel industry solutions. My active involvement in GBTA and the Canadian Risk Committee highlights my commitment to elevating our collective voice and creating meaningful impact.
My leadership philosophy is based on service, collaboration, and empowering others. I am dedicated to championing our members, advocating for future leaders, and shaping GBTA’s evolution as the trusted global business travel association. Additionally, I have past board experience with several non-profits focused on vulnerable communities, multi-culturalism, and organizational growth.
I aim to drive strategic impact in three key areas:
1. Innovative Solutions for Tomorrow’s Challenges
- Leverage AI to enhance travel risk management and streamline operations across all aspects and inputs of the travel ecosystem with a focus on ROI.
- Navigate complex risk environments and global distribution intricacies to fuel member engagement.
- Advocate for responsible sustainability throughout the travel value stream, while educating our members and the travelers they serve.
2. Enhancing Member Engagement and Relevance
- As a leader of influence, spearhead tailored programs to enhance member experiences.
- Actively seek out and drive initiatives to deliver credible research and data-driven insights.
- Act as a change agent who ensures we meet the diverse needs of our global network.
3. Adapting to Global Risk
- Influence and uncover unique opportunities to showcase GBTA’s value to travel programs.
- Drive initiatives that deliver measurable returns on membership.
- Lead with clear, impactful purpose.
GBTA’s strength lies in its people—a dynamic, growing community that pushes the boundaries, navigates new horizons, elevates skills, drives practical solutions, and safeguards travelers. As a lifelong learner and risk champion, I’m committed to giving back to my community; GBTA is my community within the travel industry. I would be honored to continue contributing. Whether your vote is cast for me or another capable candidate, my focus remains steadfast: I will keep working to build an association where every member feels they belong, where we inspire one another, and where we continue to lead the journey in advancing travel and travel risk management with a community-centered, risk-agnostic approach.
Daniel Moretta
President & Founder, Globespan Travel Management | Altour Canada Partner
Biographie professionnelle
My entire career has been built on working in the global travel landscape, partnering with multinational clients, global suppliers, and industry leaders across North America, EMEA, LATAM, and APAC. With 30 years of experience in corporate travel management, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the industry’s international dynamics — from cultural nuance and regional complexity to strategic alignment and global innovation.
As President and Founder of Globespan Travel Management and the Altour Canada Partner, I’ve led the development and expansion of global operations through some of the industry’s most challenging times — including SARS, Ebola, 9/11, and COVID. These milestones have shaped my leadership style to be resilient, adaptable, and focused on delivering meaningful value under pressure.
Throughout my career, I’ve worked alongside corporate travel managers, procurement leaders, suppliers, and destinations to build travel programs that are strategically aligned, regionally adaptable, and operationally scalable. I understand the regional and global priorities of travel buyers and suppliers and how to balance them to deliver sustainable, cost-effective, and culturally attuned outcomes.
I’ve also led enterprise-wide innovation in AI-driven automation, sustainability tracking, and data intelligence, while championing diversity, equity, and inclusion in both internal operations and supplier engagement.
I’m proud to have contributed to GBTA as a speaking panelist at conferences and events, including the upcoming 2025 GBTA Convention in Denver, where I’ll be speaking on “Travel Agents vs. AI: A Collaborative Approach to Customer Service.” In addition to speaking, I’ve involved with GBTA for over 15 years, served on GBTA committees and supporting the association’s evolution. I’m also a strong believer in mentoring the next generation of travel professionals, helping emerging talent navigate our complex industry and build sustainable, values-driven careers.
If elected to the GBTA Global Board of Directors, I will bring:
- A career built entirely on global business travel
- First-hand knowledge of managing travel operations across continents
- A commitment to cultural sensitivity, operational excellence, and innovation
- Strong advocacy for sustainability, technology, and inclusive business practices
- A voice with global reach
GBTA is not only a vital global connector, but also a key industry advocate — shaping policy, standards, and the future of business travel worldwide. As global markets continue to evolve, my goal is to help future-proof GBTA by bringing a grounded, globally informed perspective that champions innovation, regional equity, and long-term sustainability. On a personal note, I’m a Toronto, Canada native, but have lived and worked in Europe, Africa, and Latin America, which has shaped my worldview and deepened my global perspective. I’m a proud father of three and grandfather of two — with another grandchild on the way. In my spare time, I ride my Harley-Davidson — my version of “throttle therapy.” I’m also an adventurous globetrotter, equally at home gliding off cliffs in Brazil, riding dune buggies in Dubai, or scuba diving in Asia. As a fluent speaker of English, Spanish, French, and Italian, I consider myself a global citizen — able to connect with people, cultures, and communities across continents with authenticity and respect.
Déclaration de plateforme
I’m honored to put my name forward as a candidate for Allied Seat, At Large on the GBTA Global Board of Directors. With over 30 years in the corporate travel industry — including my current role in the C-suite leading multinational operations — I’ve built a career grounded in global perspective, operational excellence, and measurable impact.
Today, GBTA stands at a critical intersection. Economic pressures are increasing. Technology is accelerating. Member expectations are evolving. If we want GBTA to remain essential — not optional — we must act with strategic clarity and global intent.
As a board member, I will focus on the priorities that matter most to our diverse membership — from suppliers to buyers, from chapters to global markets. I bring real-world leadership, P&L accountability, and a deep understanding of how to translate vision into action. I’ve led through crises, grown through disruption, and built lasting value through collaboration.
My platform centers on three key priorities:
- Strengthening membership ROI
- Advancing the next generation of global talent
- Guiding the ethical and practical adoption of AI in business travel
Each of these is critical not just to GBTA’s future — but to your success as a member.
1. Driving Membership ROI by Strengthening Engagement and Balance
As a board member, I will champion initiatives that grow buyer membership, boost attendance at global, regional, and chapter events, and improve the buyer-to-supplier ratio — ensuring that every connection delivers measurable ROI.
In today’s climate of economic uncertainty and tightened budgets, every member — buyer or supplier — must see a clear return on investment from their GBTA involvement. That starts with stronger engagement and a more balanced community.
All corporations are under budget constraints. Having led multi-million-dollar global organizations, held direct P&L accountability, and currently serving in the C-suite, I understand how corporate leadership — whether supplier or buyer — evaluates ROI. I also understand the lens through which most members must seek budget approvals for association engagement.
I will work to ensure GBTA delivers the kind of tangible value and data-driven results that help our current and future members clearly demonstrate the ROI of their membership and conference participation.
The goal: a stronger, more valuable GBTA that supports its members in doing more with less.
2. Building the Future: Advancing Next-Gen Talent with Global Reach
As a board member, I will advocate for a globally integrated talent strategy — one that expands on Ladders, deepens opportunities for emerging professionals, and actively engages post-secondary institutions around the world to introduce students to careers in business travel.
The GBTA Ladders program is a proven success, but it’s time to build on that momentum and take our support for future leaders even further. We must go beyond mentorship and offer real-world leadership opportunities, global exposure, and sustained career pathways.
Throughout my career, I’ve prioritized nurturing potential, recognizing rising talent, and creating space for new ideas and growth. The business travel industry must do the same if we want to remain innovative and resilient in the years ahead.
This is a key initiative to help future-proof our industry — by ensuring the next generation is not only prepared to lead, but inspired to stay.
3. Leading with Innovation: Balancing Ethical AI with Human Intelligence
As a board member, my goal is to help GBTA establish global standards and best-in-use guidelines for AI in business travel — ensuring innovation is implemented ethically, inclusively, and with strategic intent across all regions.
AI is powerful — but it’s only truly effective when balanced with Human Intelligence to guide, adapt, and serve.
In Q1 of 2024, I led the launch of our organization’s AI journey — with a cautious, staff-first approach focused on ensuring AI would support, not replace our teams. That foundation has allowed us to gradually expand AI use into client-facing services, always with the goal of enhancing value without compromising human connection.
Looking ahead, GBTA must lead in answering important questions:
How can AI support sustainability goals, strengthen cost controls, improve program compliance, and deliver real-time duty of care in crisis situations? These are not abstract ideas — they’re the challenges our members face every day.
AI is advancing at an unprecedented pace — but global regulations, adoption levels, and permissions vary widely across regions. As companies move quickly to use AI to boost efficiency, margins, and cost control, the industry urgently needs a common foundation to guide responsible implementation.
Lindsay Straub
Global Head of Sales; FCM Travel
Biographie professionnelle
Lindsay is a dynamic sales and people leader with a focus on enhancing corporate travel programs, growth and customer acquisition. She brings more than 12 years of experience in corporate travel to her role at FCM Travel where she oversees the company’s global sales strategy through key initiatives and innovative solutions.
Prior to joining FCM in April 2024, she served as Vice President of Sales for the BTN Group (Business Travel News), managing a diverse portfolio of B2B media and event products. Lindsay is a member of the GBTA Ladders Advisory Board and was named to GBTA WINiT’s ‘Top 50 Women in Travel’ in 2022.
Lindsay has a double major in Public Relations and Journalism from Marist College. She loves to travel and play golf – though she’ll tell you her score doesn’t always reflect that.
Déclaration de plateforme
I am honored to be considered for the Allied at Large seat on the GBTA Board of Directors. With over 12 years of experience in the corporate travel industry, I bring a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities shaping our ecosystem. As the Global Head of Sales at FCM Travel, I lead high-performing teams across regions, build strategic partnerships, and drive sustainable growth by staying ahead of, and adapting to, ever-changing market shifts and client needs.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside buyers and suppliers, giving me a 360-degree perspective on our industry’s complexity and potential. GBTA plays a critical role in fostering connection, advocacy, and innovation across this global community, and I am eager to contribute to that mission in a more meaningful way.
Over the past decade, my involvement with GBTA has been both personally and professionally transformative. I began my journey as a mentee in the GBTA Ladders program, igniting my passion and commitment to mentorship and community. Since then, I’ve proudly served in multiple leadership capacities, including Co-Chair of the Ladders program and currently as a member of its Advisory Board, helping to shape its evolution into one of the GBTA Foundation’s most globally inclusive initiatives. Beyond Ladders, I’ve been actively involved in local GBTA chapters, contributing to thought leadership and supporting charitable efforts that reflect our industry’s broader responsibility to give back. I hold a firm belief that mentorship, diversity, and inclusion are essential to the continued growth and resilience of our industry. GBTA has provided a platform where these values can thrive, and I remain committed to fostering a community that empowers all voices and drives meaningful progress.
I would value the responsibility to act in the best interest of the GBTA members and for the greater good and advancement of our industry. How will I stand behind the mission of GBTA and help drive it forward?
If elected to the Board, my key priorities will be:
· Inclusion (Creating Purpose and Place for All) – GBTA is more than an association; it is a platform for growth, advocacy, and connection. My commitment is to ensure that anyone with a passion for the business travel industry has access to the tools, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive – regardless of career level, industry sector or background. As board members, we have a responsibility to champion inclusion, amplify diverse voices, and create pathways for engagement. Together,
we can build a community where every member knows they have a place and a purpose.
· Collaboration (Championing Collaboration Across Stakeholders): I will work to create more open dialogue and shared value between buyers and suppliers – ensuring GBTA remains a unifying voice that reflects the diversity and evolving needs of its members.
· Innovation (Driving Industry Modernization): From digital transformation to sustainable business travel practices, I am committed to helping GBTA lead the charge in embracing innovation and advancing global standards that future-proof our industry.
· Leadership Development (Supporting Emerging Leaders): I believe our industry’s future depends on developing a strong pipeline of diverse, next-generation talent. I will advocate for programming and continued mentorship initiatives that empower rising professionals.
· Membership Growth (Expanding Global Alignment): With experience operating across North America, EMEA, and APAC, I am passionate about ensuring GBTA’s strategies and initiatives reflect truly global priorities and regional nuances to accelerate membership growth.
I am committed to listening, to learning and to doing. GBTA continues to be instrumental in my personal and professional growth, and I am excited by the opportunity to bring my energy, experience and perspective to its Board of Directors. I believe in our industry, in the power of coming together and in the positive impact I will contribute if elected.
Merci pour votre soutien.
Rick Versace
CEO; A1A Global Ground
Biographie professionnelle
Rick Versace est un entrepreneur et chef d'entreprise chevronné, né et élevé à Brooklyn, New York. Directeur du transport terrestre depuis toujours, il a débuté sa carrière dans une entreprise nommée Apple Express à Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. Faisant très tôt preuve d'un sens aigu des affaires, il a étendu ses opérations en ouvrant trois bureaux supplémentaires à Park Slope, Bedford Stuyvesant et Staten Island. Son parcours dans l'industrie est marqué par une recherche incessante de l'excellence dans le service à la clientèle, associée à une adoption stratégique des dernières technologies.
La formation de Rick comprend un baccalauréat en finance et investissements du Baruch College de la City University of New York. Pendant ses études, il a travaillé à Wall Street, améliorant ainsi sa compréhension des marchés financiers et de la stratégie d'entreprise. Cette expérience s'est avérée inestimable puisqu'il a ensuite construit une importante entreprise de transport à New York grâce à des capitaux propres.
En 1996, à la recherche de nouveaux horizons, Rick a déménagé avec sa femme Peggy et leurs cinq enfants dans le sud de la Floride, où ils ont acheté plusieurs sociétés de transport. Ces acquisitions ont jeté les bases de ce qui allait devenir A1A Global Ground, un fournisseur mondial de transports de luxe et un nom éminent du secteur. Sous la direction de Rick, A1A Limo a non seulement obtenu la reconnaissance en tant qu'entreprise Inc. 5000, mais a également remporté de nombreux prix et distinctions, notamment le prix de l'opérateur LCT de l'année et le prix Magellan.
En plus de ses réalisations dans le domaine des transports, Rick possède une société d'investissement immobilier et une entreprise de vêtements de golf appelée On Par, qu'il possède avec son fils.
Actuellement, Rick est président de la Florida Limousine Association, rôle qu'il occupe depuis dix ans et est membre du conseil d'administration et trésorier de la National Limousine Association. Il est également activement impliqué dans sa communauté en tant que membre de la South Florida GBTA, de la Chambre de commerce de Boca Raton et du Palm Beach County Convention Center and Visitor's Bureau. Il est Grand Chevalier des Chevaliers de Colomb de Saint-Jude. Lui et sa femme Peggy sont profondément engagés dans la philanthropie et soutiennent des organisations telles que la Fondation Make a Wish, la Fondation George Snow et le St. Jude's Children's Cancer Research Hospital.
Les intérêts personnels de Rick incluent la navigation de plaisance, le golf et les avions volants. Il est également un auteur-compositeur-interprète talentueux qui joue du clavier et de la guitare, mettant en valeur son côté artistique parallèlement à ses activités commerciales et philanthropiques.
Déclaration de plateforme
Connect, Learn, Grow & Discover:
Encourage Professional Development through Education: Ensure that GBTA members continue to have access to top-tier educational resources and certification programs that align with the evolving demands of the travel industry.
Renforcer la communauté et l'engagement : contribuer à créer un solide sentiment de communauté parmi les membres en améliorant l'engagement personnel et en offrant de précieuses opportunités de réseautage, garantissant ainsi que la GBTA reste indispensable aux professionnels du voyage dans le monde entier.
Global Standards for Ground Transportation
Creating Global Standards for Ground Transportation for the Global Business Travel Community. It’s important for travelers to expect a certain level of Duty of Care and accountability when organizing ground transportation for their travelers. Organizations expect consistent safety, training, and sustainability standards that give travel buyers confidence and ensure travelers receive reliable, secure, and efficient service—anywhere in the world.
Gestion durable des voyages :
Champion Sustainable Business Travel: Lead the charge in sustainable travel management by promoting the “Sustainable Travel Management Practices” . Focus on practical climate action strategies, managing and reducing carbon emissions, and fostering sustainable technology adoption within business travel.
Plaidoyer et soutien des membres :
Plaider à Washington DC et auprès des législateurs locaux pour des politiques qui encouragent les voyages et la sécurité de nos voyageurs. Encouragez l’innovation pour rendre les voyages plus faciles et sans stress. Participer activement à l’élaboration de politiques de voyage qui soutiennent les pratiques durables et les innovations technologiques. S'engager auprès des décideurs politiques et des leaders de l'industrie pour promouvoir les intérêts des membres de la GBTA.
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