Get Ready for the Business Travel Event of the Year
The countdown is on to GBTA APAC Conference 2024 – Singapore! This year’s conference is packed with great education sessions, engaging main stage sessions, panel discussions, and incredible exhibitors. Co-locating with the Worldwide ERC® Regional Summit in Singapore for the 2nd year running – delegates can exploring synergies between business travel and workforce mobility and benefit from the learning and networking opportunities from both Conferences.
Conference Start Time:
Tuesday May 14, 8:30 AM, registration and welcome coffee at Fairmont Ballroom Foyer Canning & Padang
Conference Location:
Raffles City Convention Centre, Singapore
Parking & Directions:
Click here for directional instructions to Fairmont Singapore and Swissotel The Stamford. GBTA have a small number of complimentary hotel parking coupons that will be offered to delegates on a first come, first served basis- requests should be made at the GBTA registration desk.
Accommodation
If you require accommodation, we encourage you to make the arrangements as soon as possible, if you haven’t done so already. Conference delegates can receive 20% discount at the Swissôtel The Stamford and the Fairmont Singapore – more information can be found here.
Download the Conference App
Download the free Conference app and access the full agenda, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors and attendee lists and prepare ahead of time! The app will allow you to create your own agenda of selected sessions, interact with other attendees, view the expo floor map and much more!
Download on the Apple App Store
Download on the Google Play Store
You can also access the full agenda on the Attendee Hub
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Registration Desk
The registration desk, located in Fairmont Ballroom Foyer, Canning & Padang, will be open both days of the Conference for attendees to check in and receive a name badge. Registration will open at the following times:
Tuesday, May 14, 8:30 AM
Wednesday May 15, 7:30 AM
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Attendee Wi-Fi Access
Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, details below:
Go! Running Tours
Go! Running Tours is delighted to invite Conference delegates to join either a morning running or a brisk walking tour of Singapore starting directly from the Fairmont Hotel, on Wednesday, May 15 from 6.00 AM – 7:00 AM. Sign Up here>>
*Please remember to hydrate before the run or bring water along especially if you’re brisk walking.
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Check Out Get Pica
Get any photos taken by our on-site photographer of you delivered directly to your inbox with GetPica!
Download Your Personalized photos in 5 steps:
- Access the Conference photo album here. Alternatively you can download the GetPica app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play.
- Create your personal account.
- Enter the event code: #GBTAWERC
- Take a selfie (for facial recognition)
- Explore all the photos you appear in and share your favorite moments on your social network!
What to do in Singapore
Check out the Destination Toolkit Page for a guide on what to do, where to go and what’s happening in Singapore!
If you decide to come into town a bit earlier, or stay a bit longer, then check-out these activities – curated by locals and expats:
Beach Bumming
Take a stroll in East Coast Park, and plant your feet in the sand. Spend a couple of hours at Sentosa to work on your tan.
Gardens by the Bay
An absolute must see when in Singapore. Wander through the gardens, take an elevator up one of the big tree in Supertree Grove, and visit the Flower and Cloud Forest ’domes’ to explore beautiful flora it has to offer.
Hawker Food
Get your Singaporean food fix at one of the hawker centres across town. Newton Circus and Maxwell are well known ‘markets’ and easy accessible. Try the famous Chicken Rice, Nasi Lemak, Singapore Laksa, Mee Siam or Rebus, Lontong, or endulge in a Kueh Lapis, just to name a few. Couple this with a nice Sugarcane Juice, or a locally brewed Tiger beer.
Hiking & Running
If you are into hiking or running there are a couple of amazing tracks across the city. Check out Bukit Timah Railroad, McRitchie Reservoir, Bedok Reservoir
Key Conference Events
We’ve highlighted below some of the key Conference highlights. You can find out more about the full Conference programme via the Conference app and in the attendee hub.
Opening Main Stage: Radical Collaboration for the Future of Business Travel in APAC
09:00 AM – 10.30 AM Tuesday, May 14 2024
GBTA Opening Remarks:
- Peter Koh, Chair, APAC Advisory Board
- Rosemary Maloney, Vice President, GBTA Board of Directors
Welcome Address by Singapore Tourism Board:
Poh Chi Chuan, Executive Director, Exhibitions & Conference
Introduction:
Chu Yong Yi, Vice President Corporate Travel, Shell
Industry Keynote by Suzanne Neufang, CEO, GBTA
GBTA Outlook on current state of business travel globally as well as the APAC region’s outlook. Drawing on GBTA research and insights, we will look at pertinent industry trends that will shape the future of business travel.
Travel KOL Keynote by Hermione Joye, Sector Lead, Travel and Vertical Search APAC, Google
Hear from Hermione Joye, Sector Lead, Travel and Vertical Search APAC, Google what are the mega travel trends in today’s travel landscape.
The Opening Main Stage session will conclude with an engaging Industry Leaders Panel. Narrowing the focus from the previous sessions into a discussion on today’s challenges and opportunities within the APAC Business Travel market against the backdrop of the business outlook and trends.
Moderator:
Elle Ng-Darmawan, Regional Director, APAC, GBTA
Panelists:
- Nicola Winchester, Global Travel, Meetings and Events Leader, EY
- John Simeone, CEO, Jetstar
- Johnny Thorsen, VP of Business Development for Content Distribution, Spotnana
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Closing Main Stage Day 1: Elevate for Success
3:45 PM – 5:00 PM, Tuesday, May 14 2024
Elevate for Success: The Strategic Evolution in the Roles of Travel Manager and Account Manager
Discover the pivotal transformation opportunities in the roles of Travel Manager and Account Manager. From tactical operatives to strategic visionaries. Dive into real-world insights and learn how to navigate the evolving landscapes of travel and account management.
ROI Revolution: Elevating the Role of the Travel Manager (and Travel Program)
Shaping the Future: Transforming Travel Management Overview
Mike Orchard, FESTIVE ROAD will share the key changes in travel management, and how these are reshaping travel programmes, from FESTIVE ROAD's 'Macroscope 2.0' global research.
Fireside Chat with a Strategic Travel Manager (15 min)
An insightful conversation with a seasoned Travel Manager, moderated by Mike Orchard. Delve into the transformative role of travel managers, exploring the nuances of strategic travel management and the changing roles and skills needed for success. Includes audience interaction through live polling and questions.
Presenter & Interviewer:
Mike Orchard, Principal Consultant, Product & Analytics Lead, FESTIVE ROAD
Buyer Fireside Chat:
Adeline Kang, Regional Operations Director JCAP, Travel Meetings & Card, MSD
Perfecting the art of Account Management
This session aims to shed light on the evolving dynamics of account management in the business travel industry, encouraging an exchange of insights on achieving excellence in client relationships, adapting to change, and navigating the post-COVID landscape. The session will be thought provoking for both travel buyers and suppliers.
Speaker:
Sascha van der Zijden, Head of Customer Success, Asia Pacific, SAP Concur
360° Perspective: The Anatomy of Exceptional Account Management (30 min)
A dynamic panel discussion featuring voices from across the industry spectrum, analysing the essence of superb account management and its value for both buyers and suppliers. Includes audience interaction through live polling and questions.
Moderator: Carl Jones, APAC Advisory Board Member, GBTA
Panelists:
- Scott Reddie, Asia Chief Business Officer, FCM Travel Asia
- Shirley Chin, Senior Director, Global Sales Southeast Asia, Marriott International
- Adeline Kang, Regional Operations Director JCAP, Travel Meetings & Card, MSD
- Sascha van der Zijden, Head of Customer Success, Asia Pacific, SAP Concur
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Networking Cocktail
5.15 PM – 7:00 PM Tuesday, May 14 2024
After a full day of education, thought leadership and networking - join your fellow attendees to relax, chat and unwind over a cocktail!
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Go! Running Tour of Singapore
6.00 AM - 7:00 AM Wednesday, May 15 2024
Go! Running Tours is delighted to invite Conference delegates to join either a morning running or a brisk walking tour of Singapore starting directly from the Fairmont Hotel. Register here>>
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Buyer Breakfast Session
7:45 AM – 8:45 AM, Wednesday, May 15 2024
Day two will open with a buyer only breakfast giving buyer attendees the opportunity for peer-to-peer networking and knowledge sharing - it's the perfect way to start the day! Please note this is open to all Conference buyer delegates - don't miss out, register here>>
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Opening Main Stage Day Two: Driving Positive Impact through ESG
9.00 AM – 10.30 AM, Wednesday, May 15 2024
Introduction
Jim Chung, SEA GM, Trip.Biz
ESG Best Practices and Future Plans
In this session we will delve into what ESG means for corporations and how can business travel have a positive impact in the drive for a more sustainable future for travel. Looking at governance; reporting and the social potential for regenerative travel this session will showcase best practise already in action and plans for the future.
Speaker/Interviewer:
Suzanne Neufang, CEO, GBTA
Fireside Chat with:
- Beh Siew Kim, Chief Financial & Sustainability Officer and Managing Director Japan and Korea at The Ascott Limited
- Gerald Ng, Vice President, Regulatory Affairs and Sustainability at Changi Airport Group
Embracing Inclusivity in Travel: Fostering Connections and Accessibility
Travel is more than just a journey; it's an avenue for connection, education, sales, and delivery. However, without due consideration for accessibility, these opportunities can become daunting or even impossible for many. In this session, we'll delve into the pivotal role that travel plays in cultivating an inclusive workplace. We'll explore why inclusivity matters and discuss practical strategies for making travel accessible to all. Join us as we unlock the power of inclusivity in travel and pave the way for a more connected and accommodating future.
Moderator:
Linda Bekoe, Chair of Inclusion and Culture Committee, GBTA and CEO / Founder, About Partners
Panelists:
- Joann Toh, Global Travel Manager, Amway
- Sharifah Alhabshi, Senior Director, Program Management - Asia Pacific, BCD Travel
- Rex Loh, Vice President – Sales, Pan Pacific Hotels Group
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The Big Idea - Interactive Session
1.30 PM – 3:00 PM, Wednesday, May 15 2024
The Big Idea: What is Today’s Work Culture and What Does it Mean for Business Travel
Developments in technology and collaborative working practices have created opportunities for employers to adopt a more flexible approach to how and where their employees work. This potentially offers benefits in terms of increasing accessibility, opening up new talent pools, and facilitating productivity, while also enhancing employer attractiveness and employee wellbeing. However, it can also have a considerable impact in terms of taxation; workers regulation; corporate culture and duty of care.
Does when, where, and how the work gets done matter if deadlines and deliverables are met?
In The Big Idea we will be addressing the potential benefits of a more flexible working culture i.e. where, when, and how you work, particularly with regard to the wellbeing of travellers and the impacts to be considered. Can employers afford to not offer this flexible work culture for future generations?
Led by Catherine Logan, Regional Senior Vice President – EMEA & APAC, GBTA and Ben Wedlock, Senior Vice President, Global Sales - Asia Pacific, BCD
Rapporteurs:
- Paljor Lama, Managing Consultant, Advito
- Jonathan Kao, Managing Director – North Asia, BCD Travel
- Rosemary Maloney, Senior Manager, Global Travel, Expense, and Card, Alteryx and Vice President, GBTA
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Closing Main Stage with Keynote - Unlocking the Power of Partnerships
3.30 PM – 4.30 PM, Wednesday, May 15 2024
Introduction:
Robert McQueston, Global Program Manager, SkyTeam
The world of business travel is in upheaval: Consumers want more, suppliers want to go direct, distributors want to standardise, and companies want to manage costs. Oh, and it all needs to be done sustainably. It’s an era defined by constant change, which begs the question: how can leadership teams get on the front foot and stay ahead of the curve? One of the most underrated approaches in building the business of tomorrow is unlocking the power of the partnerships ecosystem. After all, why spend years building a suite of capabilities that will soon be outdated when you can borrow those same capabilities from expert partners who are there to support you today? When collaboration works well, everyone wins.
In this interactive session Amer Iqbal will share stories from his work as an innovation coach to Fortune 500 companies, his time leading transformation efforts at Meta, and his lifelong obsession with NBA basketball. Along the way he will uncover some practical strategies that leaders can implement to make sense of exponential change and how to remain proactive while everyone else plays catch up.
Keynote Speaker:
Amer Iqbal, Founder & CEO, Five Ways to Innovate
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