The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) has significantly expanded its footprint in Australia by launching a new country-level Advisory Board and appointing industry veteran Derek Sadubin as the Country Manager for Australia and New Zealand. This strategic move underscores GBTA’s commitment to supporting the region’s $26.7 billion USD (approx. $42.5 billion AUD) business travel market, ensuring it remains a vital force within the broader $1.48 trillion USD global corporate travel industry.
Enhancing Local Expertise and Industry Growth
Recognized as the world’s leading trade organization for business travel and meetings, GBTA is leveraging local expertise to deliver tailored programs and advocacy for industry stakeholders across Australia. The formation of the GBTA Australia Advisory Board represents a pivotal milestone in strengthening the corporate travel sector, bringing together top-tier professionals from major corporations, financial institutions, travel management companies, and hospitality leaders.
“Australia is a vital market for business travel, and the new Board brings together diverse expertise from across the region,” said Catherine Logan, GBTA Regional Senior Vice President for EMEA and APAC. “Their insights will help GBTA deliver tailored programs and offerings in our mission to shape the future together for business travel and across the industry community.”
The 18-member board, chaired by Andy O’Mara, Head of Travel & Expense at Canva, includes key leaders from Accor, Avis Budget Group, Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), Enterprise Mobility, FCM, Herbert Smith Freehills, Marriott, and more.
New Leadership: Derek Sadubin Takes Charge
GBTA has appointed Derek Sadubin as its Country Manager for Australia and New Zealand to strengthen its influence in the region further. Based in Sydney, Sadubin will oversee GBTA’s regional operations, industry advocacy, and member engagement, reporting directly to Elle Ng-Darmawan, GBTA Regional Director for APAC.
A seasoned leader in the business travel industry, Sadubin has played a pivotal role in shaping corporate travel strategies across the Asia-Pacific market. His appointment aligns with GBTA’s mission to drive innovation, foster sustainable business travel practices, and ensure the industry’s long-term resilience.
GBTA’s Continued Industry Engagement
GBTA is strengthening its leadership and event partnerships to provide deeper insights and networking opportunities for corporate travel professionals. The organization will continue collaborating with the Festival of Aviation and Corporate Travel Summits (FACTS), which takes place on November 25-26, 2024. The summit will feature high-profile speakers, industry leaders, and executives from airlines and travel management companies.
Additionally, GBTA will host its annual APAC Conference on May 27-28, 2025, in Singapore at the Raffles City Convention Center. The two-day event will be a knowledge-sharing platform for business travel experts, featuring discussions on emerging trends, technology innovations, sustainability, and policy changes. For the third consecutive year, this conference will be co-located with the Worldwide ERC Global Mobility Summit, offering unparalleled networking and learning opportunities.
Australia’s Position in the Global Business Travel Market
According to the latest GBTA Business Travel Index (BTI™) report, Australia ranks 11th among the top global markets for business travel spending. The country’s $26.7 billion USD business travel sector accounts for 12% of total global expenditure, making it a key player in the industry’s post-pandemic recovery.
With an expanding corporate travel ecosystem and increasing investments in sustainable travel solutions, GBTA aims to fortify Australia’s competitive edge in the Asia Pacific travel market. By assembling an expert advisory board, introducing new leadership, and facilitating high-impact industry events, GBTA is positioning itself as an indispensable force in the evolution of business travel.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Australia’s Business Travel Sector
GBTA’s commitment to Australia is poised to enhance industry standards, advocate for corporate travel policies, and provide cutting-edge solutions to business travellers and travel management companies. With a strengthened regional presence, the organization will:
- Drive thought leadership in corporate travel policies and trends
- Facilitate industry-wide networking and professional development
- Support sustainable and innovative business travel solutions
- Advocate for regulatory and policy enhancements within Australia’s business travel sector
As GBTA deepens its regional influence, its initiatives will play a crucial role in shaping the future of corporate travel in Australia and beyond.
Find Out More
For more information about GBTA’s initiatives, upcoming events, and sponsorship opportunities, visit the GBTA APAC website.
Written by: Anne Keam