Former director general of the BBC Greg Dyke has been confirmed as the keynote speaker at the next Advantage Conference.
Following its withdrawal from the Triton merger, Advantage, which has 400 members wioth 750 shops, is holding its own conference for both business and leisure travel agents for the first time next year.
Sales and marketing director Colin O’Neill said: “It will be good for agents to learn from their colleagues on the other side of business and see what the synergies are between the two sides.”
The theme of the 2008 conference is ‘success, the only option’ with sessions focusing on the winning formula for a successful business in a competitive environment.
Greg Dyke, who started four new digital channels in his four years at the BBC, will speak about the importance of embracing change and strong leadership.
“Greg brought about radical change at the BBC and had a strong and engaging leadership style. We need to encourage our partners to embrace change, especially in terms of technology, and they will be able to apply his experience to their own businesses,” said O’Neill.
The conference, held in Sitges, Spain, will have three types of sessions: those for all delegates, those for business or leisure members only, and some on specific topics such as cruise, luxury and winter breaks, The consortium is still to confirm a second keynote speaker.
Running from September 26-28, there will be a full social programme including a golf tournament, excursions and a spa visit.
“Business travel agents may also be interested in visiting Barcelona, which is 20 minutes away from Sitges,” added O’Neil.