I’ve been in this job for a few years. The one thing I’ve learnt is:

To come in to work each day with a fresh mind and challenge my own opinions, seeking debate with others. What might have been right for yesterday’s conditions may no longer be valid for tomorrow?

Pictured left: David Brett

It is important to ask customers for in depth insights and listen to what they have to tell us, and use that feedback to drive our innovation. Only when we are working in a true partnership with our travel customers can we really provide them with the technologies and solutions they need, and therefore achieve our business goals.

Also, I have learnt how diverse the Asia Pacific region is. Each country has to be considered differently for its unique challenges and has individual needs depending on its economy, culture, and various other factors. Therefore the way we operate our business must be customised accordingly. For example, the concerns facing travel agents in the Philippines are very different from Japan, and therefore they have different needs when it comes to the application of technology.

I’ve been in this industry for many, many years. The one thing that still surprises me is:

But then, have I? The industry has changed so much, it still feels new!

One thing that can be baffling is how many travel operators are still using manual processes and stick to very outdated processes, rather than benefiting from the technologies available today. Although some airlines, hotels and travel agencies are now using cutting-edge technologies, many others are still using legacy systems that may have been created more than thirty years ago, or even still using manual, pen-and-paper processes.

In order to remain relevant in today’s marketplace, travel operators must adopt new technologies so that their processes match the expectations of modern consumers. A good example of this is mobile technology, which we expect will have a strong impact on the travel industry as travellers increasingly find mobile devices to be the most convenient means of communication.

In addition, technology helps our travel partners to remain lean and efficient in their operations, and drive revenues to ensure they are able to sustain their business during times of economic downturn. This is particularly relevant in the travel industry, which is quite cyclical by nature and easily impacted by economic trends.

The three things that most excite me about what’s going on at Amadeus and which I feel will be of most relevance to the Asian travel market are:

• Regionalisation. Amadeus in Asia Pacific is becoming recognised as a pioneer in several fields and is seen to be at the forefront of many travel trends
• Continued investment in new technology. This means we will see some very innovative new tools and solutions becoming available over the coming months
• Increased customer engagement. We have built a team with very broad industry expertise, which goes further than providing solutions and products to customers. We are now able to advise on process optimisation and industry-best practices, ensuring that the technology delivers the right results

The three things that are happening in the Asian travel distribution landscape which will have most impact for the future are:

• Distribution has to contribute to making the industry more efficient, which in turn will help it to grow more. Another factor that will also drive this growth is information sharing within the community of travel operators
• Airlines will increase their distribution capabilities by introducing technologies that provide greater connectivity. Those in the distribution sector will need to keep up with this accelerating trend
• It is very exciting to see how many travel companies are meeting the technology challenge. It is very motivating to witness their engagement and enthusiasm to influence change

By the end of this year, the one thing I’d want my partners to say about Amadeus is:

That we have become one of their greatest allies, a true travel partner, and that we offer them the most innovative technologies to help resolve their business challenges and drive their business growth.

By the end of my term with Amadeus, whenever that will be, I want this to be my greatest achievement:

We have built a great team at Amadeus. I would like to think that the next generation of leaders will continue to innovate and help bring the industry to a higher level.

When I am not working, I am:

... often still thinking about the industry and pondering future models, but at other times I like to tend to my garden. I find serenity in watching the trees and plants grow, and their battles with elements and animals. I find these everyday survival questions bring perspective. Last week I found a Slow Loris walking outside my house, an amazing treat.

I do believe very strongly in achieving a work/life balance, and make an effort to spend as much time as possible with my family and friends, and enjoy the opportunity to relax at home or visit Hua Hin, my favourite getaway in Thailand.

My role model is:

I do not really have one. I like and respect many things about different people. However, I experience an emotional surge when I witness acts of selflessness. For example, when I listen to Father Joseph Maier who has dedicated himself to helping underprivileged children in Thailand.

My favourite three words in the English vocabulary are:

“Your technology partner” quickly comes to mind! The Amadeus brand tagline embodies everything that our company is about. We are continually striving to work together with our travel customers as a true partner, rather than just another supplier. We greatly value our relationships with our partners as one of our best assets, and that is what has helped Amadeus to reach our leading position in the travel technology industry.

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