Former Hogg Robinson Group chief executive David Radcliffe has died aged 67.
He was non-executive director of American Express Global Business Travel.
The Radcliffe family confirmed his passing on July 4 following a recent deterioration in his health.
Described as a travel industry icon, Radcliffe was inducted into both the UK and US Travel Industry Halls of Fame.
He worked at Hogg Robinson since 1978, led the largest management buyout of its kind in 2000 and took the business public again in 2006.
He was chief executive of the group in February 2018 when a recommended takeover offer was received from Amex GBT.
Radcliffe continued to serve as a non-executive director of the combined business following completion of the transaction in July 2018.
He leaves his wife Paula, two children Danielle and Mark, and four grandchildren.
A family statement said: “He will be sadly missed by his very many industry colleagues, friends, and Hogg Robinson family.”
GBT chief executive Paul Abbott said: “David dedicated his life to the travel business. His passion and determination created opportunities for many thousands of people around the world.
“We have been honoured to have David on our board since the acquisition of HRG, and are proud to carry his legacy forward.
“He will be profoundly missed by many people in our business and across the industry. Our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences are with David’s wife and family at this difficult time.”
Paul Foster of Paul Foster Public Relations contacted Travel Weekly with his memories of working with David Radcliffe
“I was lucky to have a spell at Hogg Robinson working with him in the marketing department. Like many I enjoyed his organisational skills at the company conferences both leisure and business travel.
“David was the master of the art of combining solid product information with lots of fun.
“Perhaps the best organised events were the annual pre-Christmas management overnight trip. No one knew where you were going to end up. It was turn up at the Woking head office with an overnight bag plus your passport.
“Venues included Scotland, Jersey & Ireland. Yes, David went on to very successfully running a brilliant business but he made sure everyone who worked with him was motivated to bring out their best.”