WHEN network supplier Imminus was looking for a new face to head up its travel division, the successful applicant was someone with no formal technical background.
This was an unusual move for a technology company, but the man who filled the post of general manager, Keith Webber, was chosen because of his 20 years of travel experience on the tour operating and travel agent side of the industry. This included roles at somehigh-profile companies such as Pickfords Travel where he was marketing director.
Almost a year after his appointment, Imminus’ decision appears to be paying off, with Webber able to boast significant achievements in Imminus’ performance levels.
Usage of the Imminus network rose by 14% for the first three months of 1999 compared to the same period last year, and Webber has recently overseen the signing of a number of new accounts to Imminus, including Canadian Affair and Travel 2/4.
He has just launched a booking and ticketing service for the ferry industry, called Merlin, which he expects to lead to ferry operators signing up to the Imminus network.
Earlier this month, his role was expanded to a new position of general manager travel and leisure for Imminus and Telewest, its parent company.
Webber’s trump card is a good understanding of client needs. “Because I have worked in various travel companies who use the sort of technology that Imminus provides, I can see the point of view from the perspective of the client. I understand what the client wants and why they want it,” he said. “There is a danger to see technology as the be all and end all, but I see technology as enabling travel companies to increase performance.”
Like many in the technology industry, Webber believes viewdata’s days are numbered, and the Internet is the way forward.
“Imminus is working on a number of projects using Internet protocol,” he said.