Former Carlson Wagonlit Travel chief Doug Anderson was today named as chief executive at rival American Express Global Business Travel.
Anderson stepped down from CWT in April after eight years as chief executive.
He takes the helm of Amex GBT “to accelerate the organisation’s strong growth trajectory”.
The travel management company has been looking for a chief executive since former incumbent Bill Glenn stepped down four months ago.
Anderson said: “Now more than ever, GBT is an innovator in travel management and a company that is forging the way towards a new definition of business travel.
“With new technology offerings and the opportunity to continue to expand GBT’s footprint, the company is on a clear path towards unparalleled success.”
Amex GBT was spun out from American Express just over two years ago.
Board chairman Greg O’Hara, who assumed the chief executive role while a search for Glenn’s successor was conducted, said: “Over the past two years, we have assembled an unparalleled team of top industry talent, and Doug is the right leader to continue the great momentum we’ve seen with GBT to date.
“We are a proven, winning team backed by substantial investment, with a focus on the future.
“Our infrastructure transformation is nearing completion and our M&A activity is ramping up quickly.
“We are making and will continue to make sweeping technology investments to support our customers’ ever evolving requirements.
“These investments are paying off and the industry is taking notice by rewarding us with new business. In many ways, we’re just getting started. Having a well respected travel industry leader like Doug as chief executive to drive the operations of our business, will help us continue to accelerate this pace.
“Doug’s business travel knowledge and his ability to lead strong, successful companies that deliver exceptional value to their customers make him the ideal person to continue GBT’s growth now and in the future.”