Press Release
For Immediate Release
22 August 2008
ACTE HONORS TWO INDUSTRY LEADERS FOR VISION AND PERSEVERANCE AT ITS ASIA-PACIFIC EDUCATION CONFERENCE
Singapore --
Singapore -- Two veteran authorities of the GSingapore -- Two veteran authorities of the global business travel management profession – Ian Girvan of BHP Billiton and Mike Bezer of Carlson Wagonlit Travel – received industry accolades from an audience that spanned more than 20 countries at the Association of Corporate Travel Executives’ (ACTE) 7th Annual Asia-Pacific Education Conference, in Singapore today.
“ACTE’s Asia-Pacific region constitutes one of our fastest growing constituencies,” said ACTE President Richard Crum. “Not only have ACTE members in the Asia-Pacific sector paved the way for their companies in the implementation of innovative procedures and new methodologies, but they have begun to lead the industry in the development of new technology and best practices specially suited for companies seeking to do business here as well.”
Ian Girvan, Global Supply Manager – Travel for BHP Billiton, was nominated to receive ACTE’s Advancing the Industry Award for an outstanding performance of incorporating a balance of consolidation, procurement principles, new technology, and a series of enhancements designed to boost traveller productivity, while reducing stress. Girvan’s nomination was secured by ACTE’s Asia-Pacific council, who determined that BHP Billiton’s travel programme incorporated a majority of the association’s practices to traveller advantage.
"I feel honored and humble to have received this honor on behalf of BHP Billiton and the Global Supply Travel Team," said Ian. "This award is tremendous professional recognition for ideas and concepts developed through my relationship with ACTE and our key travel partner, Carlson Wagonlit Travel. Thank you for your generous accolades and for your support."
ACTE’s coveted Corporate Social Responsibility Award was presented to Mike Bezer, Vice President Global Sales Asia-Pacific, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, the first time this award has been given in the Asia-Pacific region. A well-known and respected leader in both industry and ACTE circles, Bezer is the former Asia-Pacific Regional Chair and a driving force behind the planning and execution of the association’s programmes in the region.
Bezer and Carlson Wagonlit Travel were both honoured for their efforts in introducing an environmentally gentle travel programme that provides long-term benefits for both travellers and the planet. This honour was especially well-timed as ACTE leadership is striving for one of the lowest carbon footprints ever achieved at a major regional conference.
“No one had ever heard of Corporate Social Responsibility four years ago,” said Bezer. “Today, we are proud to say the CWT offering for clients always incorporates a CSR element. My company and I are very honoured for the recognition this ACTE award brings and for the message it imparts. This is an honor that benefits us all!”
Complete professional bios of Ian Girvan and Mike Bezer are available on the ACTE website (www.acte.org), along with their related accomplishments during their tenure with the association. The ACTE Asia-Pacific Education Conference drew 460 attendees from 21 countries, with 48 percent ranking travel management executives (director or above) and a high percentage of corporate buyers (37 percent), with 52 percent by company.
ABOUT ACTE:
The Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) represents the global business travel industry through its international advocacy efforts, executive level educational programs, and independent industry research. ACTE's membership consists of senior travel industry executives from 82 countries representing the €200 billion business travel industry. With the support of sponsors from every major segment of the business travel industry, ACTE develops and delivers educational programs in key business centers throughout the world. ACTE has offices in Africa, Asia-Pacific, Canada, Europe, Latin America, Middle East and the United States. For more information on ACTE, please go to www.acte.org.
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Contact:
Kenneth Phua
Regional Director Asia-Pacific
Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE)
Tel: 65-6440 9169
Email: [email protected]
Mail: VBox 881495, Singapore 919191
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T: 020 7326 9880
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