Michael Hare, chief executive of Portman Travel, has been announced
as the new chairman of industry body the Guild of Travel Management
Companies (GTMC). Hare's position was announced at the GTMC's
Annual General Meeting in January 2010.
Hare is the first Portman chief executive to hold the position of
GTMC chairman, which lasts for two years.
Hare said: "It's a privilege to become the GTMC's chairman. I look
forward to a busy and successful two years in the role representing
the needs of the business travel industry as a whole, in addition
to my Portman duties. I'm dedicated to maintaining the GTMC's
commitment to quality and best practice whilst ensuring we become a
strong voice for the business travel sector."
Between them the GTMC's members account for some 80% of business
travel spend in the UK and facilitate over 11 million transactions
a year.
Hare's plans for the GTMC include simplifying its membership
criteria, abolishing Associates and redefining the conditions for
Partners. Membership will no longer be strictly by invitation and
travel management companies across the sector will be encouraged to
apply for membership.
Hare became chief executive of Portman Travel in October
2009.
For more information on the GTMC please visit www.gtmc.org