|
|
|
Ron Wagner - April 2002
Reflecting on Our Association
President's Message by Ron Wagner
As my tenure as president of ACTE comes to an end, I can't help but look back
at the many changes affecting our industry over these past two years, and how
we have evolved as an association and an industry as a result of these
changes.
The most recent move by airlines to eliminate commissions is simply the
latest in a series of challenges that have led us to redefine our industry
and alter our ways of doing business. In the past two years, we've seen the
economy slide and unemployment rise. We've watched technology make inroads in
areas we would have never imagined. We've weathered the mind-numbing events
and fallout from September 11, 2001. And, we've experienced the effects of
increased security around the world.
Through the power of technology and business economics, our industry has
earned the attention of the CEO, the CFO and the CIO. Most of all, it has
gained the attention of a more sophisticated business traveler. Now, with all
eyes upon us, we face the most significant challenge of all. Can we create a
better, stronger, smarter and more innovative industry? It is a huge
undertaking. But, as members of ACTE, we are uniquely qualified for the job.
There is strength in our numbers and power in our diversity.
Clearly, we cannot continue down the traditional path of a good old travel
department operating as a profit center. Nor can we address industry issues
in the same way that we did just one year ago. To tackle the big problems, we
need involvement from all areas of the travel industry -- from corporate
executives, policy makers, travel managers, travel management companies,
suppliers and technology developers. We must step out of our own areas of
responsibility and reach across industry sectors to better understand the
issues. We must work together to find integrated solutions that benefit all
of us.
Our association is a valuable resource for members from all parts of the
industry and from all over the world. It is an ideal forum in which to
explore issues, share information and learn from one another. This diversity
of opinion, experience and perspective makes us strong and will help us to
survive and flourish.
But, we cannot lose sight that we are ACTE, and ACTE can only be as strong
and diverse as the people involved in the organization. If we want to
influence how the industry changes -- and it certainly will -- then we must
all show up. Together we must take on the challenges, get involved and share
our knowledge and information. We must work together to find new ways to
create a global strategy focused on integrated solutions.
The ACTE Global Conference in Montréal will be a focal point for building
synergy in the corporate travel environment. It offers a rich opportunity to
gain state-of-the-art industry perspectives, to meet professional leaders
from every sector of the business, and for new leadership to evolve and
contribute.
As we look ahead, one thing is certain: Change will remain constant. We can't
simply fix today's problems and wait for new ones to arise. We must accept
change as a natural part of living and an ongoing opportunity for growth.
When we stop learning, we stop being relevant. ACTE provides a unique and
valuable infrastructure to help us all succeed, and we can, by becoming
involved, by learning and by changing. My greatest hope for a better future
is to see more of you involved in the process and involved in ACTE. Together,
we can create a new reality based upon mutual respect, shared goals and
common ground.
Thank you all for allowing me the honor and opportunity to be president of
our great association.
See you all in Montreal!
Sincerely,
Ron Wagner
ACTE President
Association of Corporate Travel Executive
Back to Menu of Past Letters
|
|
|
ACTE
Over 2,500 Buniess Travel Professionals Working Together to Advance the Industry
ACTE's Core Purpose:
To Advance the development and growth of the business travel professional worldwide
ACTE's Strategic Intent:
To be the leading worldwide network of business travel professionals.
ACTE US and Canada
515 King St, Suite 340
Alexandria, VA 22314
Tel: 1-703-683-5322
Fax: 1-703-683-2720
[email protected]
ACTE EMEA
Avenue des Gaulois 7
B-1040 Brussels, Belgium
Tel: 32.2.743.1589
Fax: 32.2.743.1550
[email protected]
ACTE Asia Pacific
(new office details to be announced shortly)
[email protected]
|
|
