GBTA | Chapter Presidents Council

To close out our 2024 Presidential Drive – Led by Values, Fueled with Purpose series, we are featuring Joey Allen, the CEO of Kings Worldwide Transportation and Limo Command. Joey wears many hats, including serving as the President of the GBTA Oklahoma Chapter and the Chairperson of the Financial Oversight Committee for the GBTA Chapter Presidents Council (CPC). Joey’s leadership and commitment shine through in everything he does, from advancing his chapter to ensuring financial stewardship for the CPC. His impact on the GBTA community and his dedication to the travel and transportation industries are nothing short of inspiring. Thank you, Joey, for your contributions and for leading with heart and purpose. You exemplify what it means to drive the GBTA mission forward. #GBTA #PresidentialDrive #Leadership #TransportationExcellence #TogetherWeThrive

We are thrilled to spotlight Kelly Ferrigno, GTP, the President of GBTA | New York City and National Account Manager at United Airlines. Kelly’s leadership and dedication to the business travel community are nothing short of inspiring. As the President of GBTA New York, Kelly has worked tirelessly to foster connections, elevate industry knowledge, and create meaningful opportunities for members. Her efforts reflect a genuine passion for bringing people together and driving the travel industry forward. At United Airlines, Kelly’s role as a National Account Manager further highlights her expertise and her ability to build strong relationships that benefit clients and the industry as a whole. Kelly exemplifies the values of collaboration and commitment, and her contributions to GBTA New York are a testament to her exceptional leadership. Thank you, Kelly, for your hard work and for being a driving force in our GBTA community! Stay tuned as we continue to celebrate the leaders making a difference in our chapters. #GBTAPresidentialDrive #BusinessTravel #UnitedTogether

January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, and the GBTA | Aviation Committee is hosting a powerful and informative Sex Trafficking Awareness Webinar for GBTA members. This session is designed to educate and empower travel professionals to recognize and combat this critical issue within the travel industry. The webinar will cover essential topics, including: *Key indicators to identify trafficking situations and potential victims *How to report trafficking incidents *Ways travel companies can protect themselves from liability and lawsuits *Insights into Shepherd's Watch Foundation's investigative tools supporting law enforcement *How the travel community can unite to combat this atrocity This webinar is a must-attend for travel companies, employees, buyers, and anyone passionate about making our industry safer and more informed. Together, we can work to create meaningful change. #GBTA #HumanTraffickingAwareness #TravelCommunity #Aviation

This week, I’m thrilled to highlight Becky Schlereth, the dynamic President of the GBTA St. Louis Chapter and the Global Mobility, Travel, and Expense Manager for Watlow. Becky’s passion for leadership and innovation shines through in everything she does. Under her guidance, the St. Louis Chapter has thrived as a hub for education, networking, and professional growth. Next month, Becky will take center stage as the host of the highly anticipated GBTA Leadership Summit, bringing together leaders from across the United States to collaborate and advance our industry. In her professional role at Watlow, Becky expertly manages the complexities of global mobility, travel, and expense, embodying the strategic vision and adaptability needed to excel in today’s fast-paced environment. Her dedication to empowering others and driving progress is inspiring, and I can’t wait to see her and the St. Louis Chapter shine at Leadership Summit! #GBTACPC #LeadershipSummit #BusinessTravel #LedByValues

As the holiday season brings us together in celebration and reflection, the GBTA | Chapter Presidents Council (CPC)—a collective of chapter presidents from across North America—wants to share our heartfelt gratitude with the entire GBTA community. This year has been a testament to the power of leadership, collaboration, and shared purpose. Each chapter president and their dedicated teams have worked tirelessly to strengthen our community, champion innovation, and support the evolving needs of the business travel industry. The Christmas season reminds us of the importance of connection—whether through the relationships we nurture in our chapters or the impact we make in the lives of others. As we close this chapter of the year and prepare for the opportunities ahead, let’s carry forward the spirit of giving, gratitude, and unity. Together, we’re building a stronger future for business travel and beyond. Wishing you and your loved ones a holiday filled with joy, peace, and hope. Merry Christmas from all of us at GBTA CPC! #GBTACPC #MerryChristmas #Leadership #Community #BusinessTravel

A huge congratulations to Darren L'Appanna, President of GBTA | Central and Northern Florida Chapter, for being named one of Airport Business's Top 40 Under 40 Aviation Professionals! This recognition highlights Darren's remarkable leadership and dedication to the aviation industry. His passion and commitment inspire us all, and we are so proud to see him achieve this well-deserved honor. Join us in celebrating Darren's incredible achievement! #AviationExcellence #GBTA #Leadership #Top40Under40

Meet Jeff Burba, President of the GBTA | Chicago Chapter and Corporate Travel and Expense Manager at West Monroe. In addition to his chapter leadership, Jeff serves as the Chairperson for the CPC Chapter Exchange, where he plays a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and sharing best practices across all chapters. Through his role at West Monroe, Jeff demonstrates a strategic approach to travel and expense management, ensuring efficiency and alignment with organizational goals. His dedication to the CPC and the business travel community is a testament to his passion for growth and connection within the industry. We’re proud to highlight Jeff’s contributions to the CPC and the industry! Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to showcase the incredible leaders within the GBTA Chapter Presidents Council. #GBTA #LeadershipSpotlight #BusinessTravel #Collaboration

This week, we are thrilled to highlight Amanda Mahan, Senior National Account Manager with Southwest Airlines and President of the GBTA | Philadelphia Chapter. Amanda is a passionate leader who brings her energy, expertise, and LUV into everything she does. Her commitment to the business travel community is unmatched, and her work as Chapter President has brought immense value to GBTA Philadelphia. This summer, Amanda also welcomed the most beautiful baby boy, Lucas, into her family! Her ability to balance leadership, family, and dedication to our industry is truly inspiring. Thank you, Amanda, for your leadership, your heart, and the impact you make on both Southwest Airlines and GBTA. Follow GBTA CPC for future updates as we continue to spotlight incredible leaders from across our chapters! #GBTACPC #Leadership #GBTAPhiladelphia #BusinessTravel

This week, we’re honored to spotlight Trish Earles, CCTE, GTP, GLP, Director of Business Solutions for American Express and the President of the GBTA | Texas Chapter. Trish is a passionate leader whose unwavering commitment to helping others sets her apart. Her drive and determination inspire everyone around her, and she consistently leads with purpose and heart. Most recently, Trish completed 26.2 miles in the Honolulu Marathon! Her ability to set goals and achieve them with determination is a testament to the dedication she brings to everything she does. Under Trish’s leadership, the Texas Chapter continues to thrive, empowering members and shaping the future of business travel. She is a shining example of what it means to lead by example and create lasting impact. Let’s celebrate Trish and thank her for her contributions to the business travel community! #GBTAPresidentsCouncil #PresidentialDrive #LeadershipInAction #BusinessTravel

Our latest spotlight in the GBTA CPC Presidential Series features Samantha Bean GTP®, GLP®, Vice President of Sales for LTD Hospitality Group and President of the GBTA | Virginia Chapter. Sam is a true leader and Culture Champion within her company, always the first to stand up and support a meaningful cause. A dedicated member of GBTA since 2009, she has received numerous awards and honors, including being named Allied Member of the Year in 2023. As President of the Virginia Chapter, Sam brings her passion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to advancing the business travel industry. She inspires collaboration and ensures her chapter members stay connected and empowered in an ever-evolving landscape. Join us in celebrating Sam’s incredible leadership and contributions! Stay tuned as we continue to highlight the remarkable leaders shaping our GBTA chapters. #GBTAPresidentialDrive #Leadership #CultureChampion #BusinessTravel