Graeme Barnett is to take over as exhibition director of Business Travel Market following the departure of Paul Robin.
Robin is leaving the event he founded after a 20-year career in the travel industry to take on a new role in the charity sector.
Barnett is currently exhibition director of BTM’s sister event EIBTM in Barcelona, and boasts 18 years of travel industry and exhibition experience including spells with World Travel Market and the launch of GIBTM in Abu Dhabi and CIBTM in Beijing.
Business Travel Market takes place at London’s ExCel in November, and is running alongside WTM for the first time in 2013 following its acquisition by Reed Travel Exhibitions.
Barnett said: “2013 is already shaping up to be a big year for Business Travel Market, with our co-location next to World Travel Market and our BTM Knowledge Forum next month.
“Paul has developed the show into a successful exhibition that combines quality content, insight and valuable connections for travel buyers and suppliers around the world.”
He added: “He leaves the show in great shape with an excellent team and an exciting growth strategy that will see Business Travel Market continue to serve the industry in the long term.”
Robin said: “Business Travel Market couldn’t be in better hands with Graeme and I’m positive his strategic vision and experience of the travel and exhibition industries will see the show flourish.
“The exhibition has been close to my heart since its inception and I’m confident that the support of Reed Travel Exhibitions, combined with Graeme and the team’s passion, will ensure 2013 will be a standout year for the show.”
Travel Weekly is trade media partner of Business Travel Market 2013.