Business Travel News - January 23, 2012

MOST INFLUENTIAL
EXECUTIVES OF 2011

Any effort to identify a given year’s most influential business travel executives always will contain an el- ement of futility. True influence, after all, may not
reveal itself immediately or in particularly dazzling fashion.
Still, in a dynamic 2011, there was no shortage of people
whose effect on the industry—positive or negative—de-
mands recognition.
Generally meant to benefit their own organizations, their
decisions had farther-reaching influence in a turbulent time.
The industry began last year emerging from a recession but
ended it with a cautious outlook. In between it experienced
acquisitions, technological innovation and the continued
shift to traveler-centrism. It also saw lawsuits, bankruptcies
and numerous other challenges.
The 25 Most Influential Executives of 2011 is Business Trav-
el News’ 27th annual attempt to identify them. This list was
determined by The BTN Group editors in December and
January, following several solicitations for nominations from
the industry. It is not a ranking; BTN is not measuring their
relative influence against one another.
Business Travel News thanks all those who participated
in creating this year’s list, including everyone who pitched
a nominee, participated in the vetting process or granted
an interview.
JEFF CLARKE, Travelport