Headline Sponsor
Focus Champions Conference
14-16 June 2026 Event Programme
Sponsor
Welcome to Focus Champs 2026
Welcome to our 21st Focus Champions conference, held at the stunning Ashridge House. The venue boasts over 700 years of heritage and Royal history, all set in 190 acres of Grade II landscaped gardens. There are real parallels between the legacies of Focus Champs and Ashridge: both are built on strong foundations of history and purpose, continuously shaped by people, performance, and progress, whilst actively working towards the future.
For more than two decades, Focus Champs has grown and delivered something truly unique – a platform where voices are heard, new ideas are explored, and our frontline travel management community genuinely connects. This will be just my second Focus Champs experience, and I am proud to be a part of an event with such a strong track record of learning, development, and collaboration amongst our frontline business travel teams.
The brilliant Focus Travel Partnership team has curated an event programme that reflects the diversity of our network and the ever-evolving industry we all work in, with insightful content and fresh perspectives designed to inspire and support you, plus some fun surprises along the way.
Our supplier partners are instrumental in supporting the exceptional Focus Champs experience, and I would like to extend a huge thank you to our sponsors for their partnership, especially Etihad, our headline sponsor.
Thanks for joining Champs 2026. Stay curious, engage, and have a brilliant conference to remember.
Paul
Paul Spencer MD – Focus Travel Partnership
Jeremy Pollock
General Manager – UK and Ireland
Etihad
On behalf of Etihad, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the Focus Travel Partnership Champions Conference 2026, where the industry's leading travel professionals come together to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships, and help shape the future of business travel.
As headline sponsor of this year's conference, Etihad is proud to support an event that celebrates collaboration, innovation, and excellence across the travel sector. The Champions Conference provides an important opportunity to connect with colleagues and partners, share insights, and explore the opportunities and challenges shaping our industry.
At Etihad, we believe travel has the power to connect people, businesses, and opportunities beyond borders. Recently named the World's Safest Airline for 2026 by AirlineRatings.com, we continue to invest in innovation, operational excellence, and delivering exceptional experiences for our guests.
For UK businesses, global connectivity has never been more important. Through our hub in Abu Dhabi, Etihad connects London, Manchester and Dublin to key commercial centres across the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and beyond, while continuing to expand into high-growth markets, including new destinations across China and Africa. With four daily services from London Heathrow, including three operated by our flagship
Airbus A380, we offer business travellers greater choice and flexibility alongside an elevated premium experience, featuring some of the most spacious and luxurious cabins in commercial aviation. Combined with our renowned hospitality and seamless travel experience, we remain committed to delivering exceptional comfort, service, and reliability at every stage of the journey.
Together with Focus Travel Partnership, we look forward to engaging with you throughout the conference, strengthening existing relationships, building new connections, and working together to drive the continued success of our industry. Thank you for joining us, and we wish you an enjoyable and productive conference
Headline Sponsor
Need to Know
Venue Address: Ashridge House, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, HP4 1NS (J20 of M25.) what3words: ///gashes.senior.scripted
Public Transport: The nearest train station is Berkhamsted with direct trains from London Euston.
Transfers: TBR Global Chauffeuring are offering a luxury shuttle service in small groups from Berkhamsted station to Ashridge House on 14th June from 1630-1830hrs.
Focus colleagues will be based at the station to welcome and assist with transfers from 1630.
There is a taxi rank outside the station.
CMAC have provided a coach transfer departing Ashridge at 1615 on 16th June back to Berkhamsted station.
Driving: There is free parking onsite. You may need to use overflow sections.
Accommodation: Check-in is available from 1530 on 14th & 15th June.
Please check-out prior to the conference start on 16th June.
Headline Sponsor
Need to Know cont’d
Dress codes: Welcome evening BBQ outside – Informal.
Conference days - Smart casual, we want you to feel relaxed yet focused. Please note that team building is planned for outdoors.
Celebration Dinner – Whatever suits your style.
“Netwalking” – Comfortable shoes.
Photography, Video, and Social Media: We have a professional photographer and videographer, but we would love you to share your images throughout the event. Lufthansa Group are running a social media challenge with the chance to win £600 SWISS flight vouchers.
Sensory Decompression Space: Available to all throughout the conference, located opposite Fairhaven main conference room, sponsored by Air Transat.
Emergency contact: 07956 879192
Sponsor
Agenda - Sunday 14th June
1530: Check-in available at Ashridge House
1630-1830: Shuttle transfers from Berkhamsted Station to Ashridge House –please look out for the Focus team at the station
1630-1845: Focus Champs Registration at Ashridge House by Red Lodge
1900-1930: Welcome Drinks served in Dukes Yard
1930-2145: Informal Welcome Evening BBQ and activities in Dukes Yard sponsored by TBR Global Chauffeuring
Headline Sponsor
Agenda - Monday 15th June
Morning & Lunch
0745-0815: Optional Rise & Shine Yoga on the Italian Lawns
0830-0920: Suppliers – Showcase set up in Monks Barn
0850-0855: TMCs – Please make your way to Fairhaven Conference Room
0855-0935: TMC only session with Focus & Etihad in Fairhaven
0935-0940: Suppliers – Please join in Fairhaven Main Conference Room
0945-1030: Welcome all. Ashridge journey with David Evans. Ice Breaker with Ian Jones. Conference Wellness with Sarah Hunt
1030-1045: Coffee & Smoothies sponsored by Air Europa
1045-1310: Supplier Showcase & Networking in Monks Barn
1310-1355: Lunch in Repton Hall Sponsored by Singapore Airlines
Sponsor
Agenda - Monday 15th June
Afternoon & Evening
1355: Please move back into Fairhaven Conference Room
1400-1455: Welcome Back. Who are Focus? Depaul UK. Event Wellness.
1455: Introduction to Team Building with Lufthansa Group, United and Air Canada
1500-1715: Team Building Activities outside on the Italian Lawns
1720: Please move back into Fairhaven Conference Room
1725-1740: Welcome Back. The Nicolai Meldal Award. Reset and reminder
1740-1840: Free time
1845-1940: Cocktails & More on the Italian Lawns sponsored by Qatar Airways
1945-2215: Celebration Dinner & Entertainment sponsored by Travelport
Headline Sponsor
Agenda - Tuesday 16th June Morning & Lunch
0810-0840: “Netwalking” around the beautiful historic grounds with Procon & Focus –please meet at reception
0840-0855: Please remember to check-out. Please move back into Fairhaven.
0855-0940: Welcome back. Audience with the Focus Board of Directors
0940-1045: Introducing keynote speaker Mark “Billy” Billingham MBE
1045-1100: Tea & Scones break sponsored by British Airways
1105-1130: “Focus on Focus” with Tony Edge and the Focus Team
1135-1300: TMC Breakout Sessions. TMCs - please check your badge for your Group Number - 1 with Barry, 2 with Vic and 3 with Jacob.
1135-1300: Supplier Dedicated Session. Suppliers - please staying in the room.
1305-1350: Lunch in the Coach House sponsored by Emirates & Qantas
Headline Sponsor
Agenda - Tuesday 16th June
Afternoon
1355: Please move back into Fairhaven
1400-1515: Design Thinking interactive session with Ian Jones – “Purposeful Travel Designed for Different Travellers, not one Average”
1520-1530: Depaul UK Spin the Wheel Grand Prize Draw
1530-1555: The fabulous Champs Awards
1555-1600: Save the Dates and That’s a Wrap
1615: Coach departs for Berkhamsted station, sponsored by CMAC
A welcome from our sponsors…
Bell – Etihad Airways
On behalf of myself and Etihad Airways, we are thrilled to be headlining Focus Champs this year. It’s a privilege to participate in this amazing event being held at the beautiful Ashridge House in Hertfordshire.
Over the years we have enjoyed a strong relationship with Focus Travel Partnership, and we truly value the exceptional contribution from the Central Team and the TMC Partners.
Etihad Airways continues to strengthen its position as a leading partner for corporate travellers, with a strong focus on network growth, premium comfort, and seamless connectivity through Abu Dhabi. Combined with Abu Dhabi’s growing status as a global business hub and Etihad Airway’s expanding global network, the airline remains focused on delivering efficient, comfortable, and premium travel experiences.
Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to connecting with you over the next few days.
I am pleased to welcome Focus Travel Partnership to this historic venue.
With over 25 years’ experience working in the travel industry with US Tour Operators, I recently moved to hospitality, which was a surprise, but one I am thoroughly enjoying.
I will be sharing some of the incredible history of Ashridge as well as talking about what we offer today and the opportunities available for business travel and event bookers.
I look forward to meeting you all.
On behalf of Air Europa, it’s a pleasure to be able to join you at this year’s Focus Champs Conference. As a Latin American specialist airline, we’re committed to innovation, exceptional service, and seamless connectivity across Europe and the Americas.
This year as we celebrate our 40th anniversary we’re excited to expand our partnerships with you the members, enhance our product offering with new services to South Africa commencing in June, and make travel a great experience for your clients. Sustainability remains a priority, with investments in fuel-efficient aircraft and eco-friendly initiatives.
To our valued partners: Thank you for your trust and support. Together, we’ll shape the future of travel. Let’s connect during the conference to explore new opportunities.
Enjoy the event and look forward to seeing you all there!
Martyn
David Evans – Ashridge House
Sarah Hurst – Air Europa
A welcome from our sponsors…
On behalf of Emirates, we’re delighted to be part of this year’s Focus Champions Conference. We look forward to strengthening our valued TMC partnerships and exploring new opportunities together. As a global leader in aviation, Emirates connects travellers to over 140 destinations across six continents, delivering exceptional service and comfort at every stage of the journey.
Despite the ongoing situation in the Middle East, we continue to scale up operations while prioritising the safety of our customers and crew. We are also investing heavily in our product, with a multi-billion-dollar fleet refurbishment programme and the introduction of Airbus A350 aircraft. Additionally, our rollout of ultra-fast Starlink Wi-Fi is underway across more than 200 aircraft, enhancing onboard connectivity.
We look forward to welcoming you at the jointly sponsored lunch with Qantas, our valued partner, and to connecting with you during the conference.
Matilda Goes – ITA Airways
ITA Airways, the national carrier of Italy and a member of Lufthansa Group, is proud to be a Supplier Partner for the Focus Champions Conference 2026. This is one of the best platforms in the industry focusing on operations within business travel and ITA Airways is proud to be part of it.
The past twelve months has seen a lot of change for ITA Airways. London Heathrow to Rome Fiumicino operations resumed; we have moved to becoming the 26th member of Star Alliance in their 29th year of existence; and Lufthansa Group has exercised its option to take its ownership of ITA Airways to 90% by Quarter 1 2027.
I am looking forward to meeting you all; to exchanging stories; and to participating in another memorable Focus Champions Conference.
On behalf of Lufthansa Group, welcome to the Focus Champs Conference 2026. We sincerely appreciate your continued trust and partnership in connecting corporate customers and travellers to our global network.
This year marks an exciting step forward, with the continued rollout of Lufthansa Allegris alongside the introduction of SWISS Senses, redefining our premium travel experience.
My colleague, Pat Hart, and myself, are delighted to be part of this year’s event and look forward to reconnecting with you. Be sure to explore our SWISS Sense Virtual Reality experiences and take part in the Lufthansa Group social media challenge for a chance to win exclusive SWISS flight vouchers.
Here’s to a successful and engaging conference we look forward to strengthening our collaboration together.
Kate Fitzgerald - Emirates
Kevin Young – Lufthansa
A welcome from our sponsors…
The Focus Travel Partnership are playing an import part of our journey of transformation by building stronger relationships.
Engaging with the Focus TMCs has given us a greater understanding of their business requirements , enabling mutual financial benefits.
The Focus calendar of Events and Marketing activities provides on going opportunities and brand awareness. I look forward to seeing you all during Focus Champs.
On behalf of the Air Transat UK team, it’s a pleasure to join you at the 2026 Focus Champions Conference. We truly value the opportunity to come together with the Focus Travel Partnership team and its network of agents and partners.
With our year-round direct services from the UK to Canada, expanding network, and partnership with Porter Airlines unlocking more connections across Canada and the Americas, we’re excited about the opportunities ahead. As a 7-time winner of World’s Best Leisure Airline award by Skytrax, we remain committed to delivering an award-winning experience your clients can trust.
Thank you for your continued support - we look forward to connecting with you over the next few days.
Wilcox
Welcome to the Focus Champs Conference! I’m the Director of Charter at ACC Aviation. We are a global aviation company and I am leading our UK charter division. We specialise in delivering tailored air charter solutions for passengers and cargo as part of a fully integrated aviation service.
From corporate travel and VIP flights to time-critical cargo, every mission is aligned to your clients’ schedule, requirements, and operational priorities. Our air charter consultants are specialists in their field, combining deep market knowledge with hands-on experience.
We work closely with travel management companies, acting as an extension of their services to provide seamless, flexible, and reliable air travel options. This is our third year attending Focus Champs, and we’re proud to be the official sponsor of the event. We’re looking forward to connecting with you over the next few days and learning more about what you do.
Lee Wakefield – Air India
Brandon Davis – Air Transat
Charlie
– ACC
A welcome from our sponsors…
On behalf of myself and United Airlines, I am delighted to be attending the Focus Partners Conference as your UK Account Manager.
It is a pleasure to participate in this two-day event. We truly value the remarkable contributions of Focus Travel Partnership TMC partners and look forward to meeting and reconnecting with you all.
We are also proud to sponsor the team-building activity alongside our JV partners, Air Canada and Lufthansa. We hope you enjoy the activity.
We’re on a mission to transform your flying experience. From departures that are more stress-free, to in-flight bliss, we’re easing the customer journey with a revamped fleet with comfort, inclusivity and technology built in.
United Airlines opens a world of exploration with a comprehensive route network, including 20 daily flights from London Heathrow to seven US cities: Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Newark/New York, San Francisco, and Washington D.C., with connections to over 280 destinations across the Americas. Our new Elevate product on the LHR-SFO route enhances the premium travel experience with elevated service and amenities.
Air Canada is proud to welcome you to Focus Champs!
As Canada’s flagship carrier, we’re committed to connecting your customers to over 180 destinations worldwide with comfort, reliability, and genuine Canadian hospitality.
Whether travelling for business or leisure, our focus is on delivering a smooth and enjoyable journey from start to finish.
We invite you to sit back, relax, and experience true Canadian hospitality.
Welcome to the Focus Champions Conference proudly sponsored
Qatar Airways is proud to support the professionals shaping the future of corporate travel. You keep programmes moving efficiently and responsibly, with the traveller experience at the centre, and we’re committed to delivering a premium product you can rely on.
Named ‘World’s Best Airline’, by Skytrax, an unprecedented nine times, we set the benchmark, from the privacy of Qsuite to award-winning Business Class experiences and lounges.
With departures from London Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh, we connect travellers to over 150 destinations via Hamad International Airport, ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ for 11 consecutive years.
On board, Starlink-powered connectivity helps travellers stay productive throughout their journey. We look forward to connecting with you and supporting your clients.
Enjoy the event - we look forward to welcoming you and your clients on board.
Indeep Singh Rajah – United Airlines
Jeremy Moore – Air Canada
Matt Pitman – Qatar Airways
by Qatar Airways
A welcome from our sponsors…
Procon is pleased to take part in Focus Champs 2026. Our friends at Focus Travel Partnership have once again chosen a fantastic venue at Ashridge House an ideal setting for meaningful conversations and strong industry connections.
What makes this event stand out is the atmosphere: open, energetic, and full of engaged professionals who are genuinely interested in sharing ideas. It’s where conversations quickly turn into practical insights and real opportunities.
At Procon, we help travel businesses take control of their midand back-office with ProTAS — built for automation, efficiency, and scale. ProTAS delivers fast, reliable reconciliation across BSP, bank, hotel, and card processes, reducing manual work and improving accuracy.
With an open API framework and extensive integrations, ProTAS connects seamlessly to your ecosystem, helping you save time and consistently deliver at a high standard
Jane Tyson-Moore – Singapore Airlines
Jane Tyson-Moore joined Singapore Airlines in 2016 and holds the role of Corporate Sales Manager, UK & Ireland. She leads a team of Corporate Account managers, responsible for a portfolio of global and local accounts. With almost 30 years of experience in the industry, Jane has worked for a number of airlines in Corporate sales roles, including Lufthansa and Emirates and lived in Dubai for a year.
She is pleased to be attending the Focus Champions Conference once again at a particularly exciting time for Singapore Airlines, as we enhance our frequency and capacity across the UK.
Our Manchester service will increase to daily flights from 13 July 2026, and our London Gatwick operation will expand to a twice-daily schedule from 25 October 2026.
Welcome to this year’s Focus Champions Conference. Everyone at TBR Global Chauffeuring is proud to be sponsoring and supporting an event that brings together so many valued industry professionals and partners.
As a global leader in ground transportation, TBR works across the financial roadshow, global events and corporate travel sectors, combining innovative technology with award-winning expertise to deliver safe, seamless and high-quality journeys around the world.
We’re delighted to be part of the event and look forward to meeting familiar faces, making new connections and sharing ideas. We hope you have a fantastic experience and enjoy everything the conference has to offer.
Henrik Lykke Hansen – Procon
Dani Long-Martinez – TBR Global Chauffeuring
A welcome from our sponsors…
Matt Warwick – British Airways
It is a real pleasure for me to be attending the Focus Champions Conference alongside my colleagues from American, Iberia & Japan Airlines. I am very much looking forward to connecting, collaborating, and spending time with you all during the event.
At British Airways & Iberia, we greatly value the Focus Travel Partnership and the role each TMC partner plays in delivering for our mutual customers every day. This conference provides a valuable platform for us to come together to network, exchange ideas, and drive innovation, further enhancing our collaboration and collective goals.
Thank you for being part of the conference and for the continued commitment you show to our partnership. I look forward to seeing you all there.
Welcome to the Focus Champs Conference 2026 here at the stunning Ashridge House! As the Business Development Manager for CMAC, I am absolutely thrilled to be here with you.
Events like this are all about collaboration, and it will be fantastic to share insights and great stories with so many of you. Whether we’re discussing innovative ground transport solutions, smarter duty of care strategies, or just enjoying the incredible atmosphere of this historic venue, I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn more about your business goals.
Let’s keep the conversation going—feel free to grab me for a chat, or let's connect after the event to explore how CMAC can keep your business moving forward. Enjoy the conference!
We’re honoured to be at the Focus Champs Conference at Ashridge House and extend a warm G’day to all.
As Australia’s flagship carrier, Qantas is proud to offer the only direct air links between Europe and Australia, connecting travellers with outstanding in-flight service and aircraft fully optimised for ultra-long-haul flights. With daily non-stop flights from London to Perth on the Dreamliner and London to Singapore on the A380, we ensure seamless travel every step of the way, faster than ever before.
Looking ahead, we aim to reduce travel time even further with our highly anticipated launch of Project Sunrise, connecting London and New York City to Sydney non-stop.
Focus and Qantas share a commitment to innovation and excellence, and we look forward to connecting with you all at the conference.
Ivor Hughes – CMAC
Amandeep Marway – Qantas
A welcome from our sponsors…
Henry De Costa – Travelport
Travelport is a worldwide travel retail platform with an intelligence layer powering AI-driven travel commerce. Operating in more than 160 countries, we connect buyers and sellers that share our passion for delivering exceptional travel experiences.
Under the leadership of CEO John Mangelaars, we are evolving beyond our GDS roots into a modern, AI-enabled platform built for the future of travel distribution. At the heart of that is Travelport TripServices, our cloud-native API suite designed to simplify how travel builders connect, launch, and scale AI-driven experiences across our rich global content.
Unconflicted and independent, we are the platform of choice for airlines, travel agencies, OTAs and travel management companies worldwide. Backed by continued shareholder investment and strong commercial momentum, we are building a more open, intelligent, and efficient future for travel commerce.
We’re looking forward to meeting you all at Focus Champs.
Paul Webb – Delta Air Lines
Since launching its first transatlantic service between London and Atlanta in 1978, Delta has continually expanded its U.K. footprint.
Delta operates up to 13 Daily nonstop flights from LondonHeathrow and Edinburgh to 7 U.S. gateways with connectivity to more than 200 destinations across North America. Delta also proudly partners with Virgin Atlantic, Air France and KLM as the leading transatlantic joint venture partnership. Since 2021, Delta has been awarded Best Airline in North America (fourth consecutive year) and Best Airline Staff (third consecutive year) by Skytrax World Airline Awards.
Delta is proud to offer signature products unlike anything else in the sky. Whether you’re relaxing in Delta One®, enjoying extra space in Delta Premium Select, savouring the perks of Delta Comfort or travelling smart with Delta Main Cabin, each seat offers a distinct experience tailored to your journey. With industry-leading recognition and awards for Best Airline Staff Service, Premium Economy Satisfaction and Best U.S. Airline, Delta expect excellence no matter where you’re seated.
We are delighted to be with you once again at the Focus Champions Conference.
Virgin Atlantic was created to disrupt and innovate flying. From the very first seatback TV’s and Premium cabins, to operating the youngest fleet and the first 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel transatlantic flight. We continue to challenge the status quo and discovering new ways to delight our customers with brilliantly different experiences, delivered by a crew like no other.
Together Virgin Atlantic and Delta Air Lines offer more choice, more connections and second-to-none service every step of the way. We are elevating our guest experience even further with new next generation aircraft, new Delta One Suites & streaming quality onboard Wi-Fi matched with enhanced Clubhouse features & Delta’s amazing Delta One Lounges.
Gerry Brace – Virgin Atlantic
An audience with some of the Focus Board of Directors
Paul Spencer – Managing Director
Paul joined Focus Travel Partnership in April 2025, bringing with him strong senior management and industry experience.
Paul’s first role in the Business Travel sector was in 2008 with Hillgate Travel, after a diverse career in Global Assignment Management and Software Development both as a supplier and a client. During his tenure with Statesman Travel he held responsibility for the TSI Global Network, incorporating 40 TMC members, where Paul launched TSI’s UK IATA operations under the ITS brand as Managing Director in 2019. His roles have also included the promotion and implementation of technology and software solutions (OBT, Data Analytics, Expense & bespoke development) for high volume airline solutions such as Passenger Disruption and Crew Management.
Paul’s appointment reflects the hands-on nature of our MD role, which is focused on driving growth and engagement, delivering tangible and collaborative results across the whole partnership.
Edward is the Founder, Managing Director, and CEO of EFR Travel Group. His passion for travel was ignited early on, leading him to establish his own travel enterprise straight after completing his education in business administration. He is a forward-thinking entrepreneur, and launched EFR Travel with a clear mission – to provide clients with unforgettable travel experiences that cater to their unique interests.
The EFR Corporate Travel division was created under Edward’s guidance and with his prime objective of always going the extra mile to enhance the traveller experience from the moment of departure through to the end-point of their journey. Recognising the need for personalised travel experiences, he integrated the latest travel tech to help expand client offerings.
Edward is a keen golfer and is also known for his philanthropic efforts as a patron for the Rays of Sunshine children’s charity.
Francesco is Regional Director EMEA at Omega World Travel, responsible for the strategic and day-to-day leadership of the company’s UK operation. He joined Omega in 1999 and has held a range of senior management roles across operations, sales, and client services, playing a key role in driving strategic growth and strengthening client engagement across international markets.
With more than 30 years of leadership experience in global corporate travel management, Francesco brings deep expertise in strategic growth, operational excellence, client partnership development, and building high-performing, people-led teams. Prior to Omega, he held General Manager roles within the leisure travel sector, leading fast-paced agencies with responsibility for large teams and significant advertising budgets.
Originally from Italy and based in the UK for over 40 years, Francesco’s early career in hospitality and retail shaped his strong appreciation for people and relationships. Outside of work, he travels extensively across Europe and has a strong interest in food and wine provenance, as well as cooking.
Edward Rom - Director
Francesco Deluca - Director
Sarah Hunt – Conference Wellness
I’m thrilled to return for my second year as your Focus Champs Conference Wellness Host! Every element of the wellness programme is strategically designed to keep your cognitive focus sharp and your physical energy high. Between presentations, I’ll lead "wellness energisers" - short, revitalising sessions designed to act like a natural caffeine boost. From the comfort of your seat, we’ll use a blend of chair yoga, mindful breathing, and focus techniques to recharge your system. Looking for a deeper reset? I am available throughout the event for confidential 1:1 wellness consultations. Whether you need to relieve desk-induced tension, manage event stress, or optimise your nutrition and energy, we’ll build a practical plan tailored to you. Let’s connect during the breaks, or in the sensory decompression space, I can’t wait to help you stay fully charged!
Ian Jones, BEM
Dynamic Speaker | Expert Moderator | Travel Industry Visionary
Transforming Travel Through Authentic Leadership and Inclusive Innovation
Ian Jones, BEM, is a superpower speaker who brings three decades of corporate travel expertise to stages worldwide, delivering insights that reshape how we think about business travel, workplace inclusion, and human connection. As a management consultant with temoji and former leader at Festive Road, Ian has guided global travel organisations including Marriott, Navan, Trainline, and Sabre through their most strategic challenges across Europe, Asia, and North America.
Why Ian Captivates Audiences
Ian's rare combination of deep industry knowledge and authentic personal storytelling creates transformative experiences for audiences. He seamlessly weaves together corporate travel strategy with his lived experience of ADHD and dyslexia, championing neurodivergent travellers and workplace inclusion with both vulnerability and expertise. His approach doesn't just inform—it inspires genuine change in how organisations think about accessibility and empathy in travel.
Proven Track Record of Excellence
In 2024 alone, Ian collaborated with over 250 speakers to deliver 179 hours of compelling live content across eight countries. His moderation style is described as "magnificent," "engaging," and "full of fun surprises"— creating environments where complex industry topics become accessible and actionable conversations.
Beyond Travel: A Multi-Dimensional Leader
As co-owner and Event Director of The BBQ Magazine, Ian bridges the corporate and culinary worlds, designing unique experiences. This cross-industry perspective brings fresh insights to traditional travel discussions, making him a sought-after voice for innovation and creative problem-solving.
Nicola Harwood, Executive Director of Operations
Depaul UK
Nicola is our Executive Director of Operations. She is responsible for our supported accommodation and prevention services.
Nicola joined Depaul UK in 2015 to lead and scale up our prevention services, including leading the national Nightstop network. She also successfully delivered the social impact bond i-aspire using data to drive outcomes for young people.
Nicola has over 15 years of experience working in the youth sector, specialising in developing and delivering innovative programmes that reach those furthest from education or employment. She is passionate about delivering effective and dignified services that enable real change for young people.
Before working at Depaul UK, she worked in service management roles at the King’s Trust and Young Citizens.
Adam Hickmott London City Airport
Adam Green TripStax
Adam Isfendiyar Apera Photography
Adrian Parkes Focus Travel Partnership
Alastair Ruffman Norseman Travel Ltd
Alison Carpenter Atriis Technologies
Amandeep Marway Qantas Airways
Ameeta Bablani Lupus Travel
Anastasija Novikova Apera Photography
Anthony Woodall LNER
Aoife Kent Front
Apichai Phianphithak Cathay Pacific Airways
Aurora Kataroshi Saudia
Barry Higgott Focus Travel Partnership
Becky Pratchett PSP AV
Beth Cole Wayte Travel
Brandon Davis Air Transat
Cameron Harding Japan Airlines
Camilla Roos Ison Travel
Caroline Elliker Wotton Travel
Charles Tyzack ACC Aviation
Charlie Wilcox ACC Aviation
Charlotte Armstrong Fred Olsen Business travel
Cheryl Thompson DP&L Travel
Chloe McNeill The Travel Company Edinburgh
Chloe Gibbs Midas Travel Management
Christopher Szumilo LOT Polish Airlines
Craig Webber Qantas Airways
Dani Long-Martinez TBR Global Chauffeuring
Darren Adams Singapore Airlines
David Hugo Mann Link Travel Limited
Edward Rom EFR Travel Ltd / Focus Board
Ellie Reid QA Travel
Elloise Cordy Fello Travel
Eve Waters Marine Travel
Faye Scriven Talma / Blue Cube
Francesco Deluca Omega World Travel / Focus Board
Attendees
Henry De Costa Travelport
Matt Pitman Qatar Airways
Mehmet Ozak Turkish Airlines
Michael Bots Procon Solution A/S
Michelle Robertson Chase Travel (Frosch)
Gerald Brace Virgin Atlantic Airways Ltd
Graham Pepe Emirates
Helen Thielmann QA Travel
Henrik Lykke Hansen Procon Solution A/S
Mildred Sanchez TAP AIR PORTUGAL
Moises Cedeño-Tovar Iberia
Nadia Spita Gulf Air
Natascha Svaganovic travelharbour
Neil Walker Beyond Business Travel
Nicola Spurgeon Fello Travel Ltd
Nir Harel Arbitrip
Oliver Thompson Marine Travel
Patrick Hart Lufthansa Group
Paul Webb Delta Air Lines
Paul Spencer Focus Travel Partnership
Pete O'Brien Fragomen Nomadic
Pratima Seli American Airlines
Rachel Small JetBlue
Rafael Duran Travelport
Richard Todd Forward
Robert McGeever Traveltrust
Samantha Nolan Sunways Business Travel
Samuel Da Silva Costa EFR Travel Ltd
Sara Espinosa Turkish Airlines
Sarah Ziesmann Harridge
Sarah Bardell BS Executive Travel Ltd
Sarah Hunt Conference Wellness
Sarah Hurst AIR EUROPA
Steven Shanahan Omega World Travel LTD
Sue Binks Melia Hotels International
Svetlana Wolff SAS - Scandinavian Airlines
Swati Kirtykumar Blue Cube Travel
Tony Breeze Dawson & Sanderson
Tony Packwood Depaul Charity
Tony Edge Focus Travel Partnership
Verety Bond Inntel
Vicky Shaw arrangeMY
Victoria Shorrocks Focus Travel Partnership
Virginie Bernier AFKL
Zareen Meherji British Airways
Matt Warwick British Airways
