Kerry Douglas
Head of Programme | ITM
Buyer Focus
A brand new format for 2027
30 minutes. One topic. Focused industry discussion.
Hosted by Kerry Douglas, each session will see Kerry joined by a specialist buyer or panel of buyers with relevant experience and insight into the topic being explored, bringing real-world perspectives to the conversation.
Each session will put the spotlight on a specific issue, trend or challenge, bringing together industry perspectives, practical insights and discussion to help you understand what it means for travel programmes and the wider business travel community.
Buyer Focus is designed to get straight to what matters. Hear different perspectives, gain further context and put your questions to the discussion.
Key takeaways
- Explore a timely topic affecting business travel in greater depth.
- Hear perspectives from across the industry.
- Understand the challenges, considerations and opportunities surrounding the topic.
- Take away useful insights in just 30 minutes.
What to expect
- A focused 30-minute Zoom webinar centred around one key topic.
- Discussion and insights from relevant industry voices.
- Opportunities to ask questions throughout using the Q&A tab.
- Chat function available during the event for peer networking.
- Closed Captioning available for this event.
Speakers
FEATURED SPEAKERS
Virtual Event
This event will take place on Zoom. After registering for the event the call details will appear below. You will also receive an email directly from Zoom with detailed joining instructions
For those unable to access ZOOM on their company laptops, you can also join via your phone.
Registration Fee
Business Supplier
Free
Connect IP Supplier
£ 35.00 (Ex. VAT)
Connect Supplier
£ 35.00 (Ex. VAT)
Business IP Supplier
Free
Non-Member
£ 55.00 (Ex. VAT)
Registration Closes
Wednesday Dec 01, 2027
9:30 AM Europe/LondonEvent Time
Wednesday Dec 01, 2027
10:00 AM to 10:30 AM Europe/LondonPlatform
ZOOM
https://us02web.zoom.us/joinUPCOMING EVENTS
Showcase
Buyer Only 16 September 2026
Tech Showcase
This quick-fire format pushes each presenter to demonstrate what makes them an ideal partner. They’ll highlight key developments and innovations, and show how their solutions have adapted to meet the evolving needs of travel buyers and travellers in a constantly shifting landscape. Key takeaways * Benchmark suppliers and understand how they compare. * Discover what’s new across both established and emerging providers. * Ask anonymous questions directly to each presenter. What to expect * A Zoom event featuring concise, punchy presentations or demos from our selected suppliers, followed by a dedicated Q&A. * The option to ask anonymous questions throughout, helping you obtain the insights that matter most. * Chat functionality to share thoughts and discuss propositions with fellow buyer members on the call. Register for Part Two here [https://www.itm.org.uk/events/evt-001046]
Social
All Member 17 September 2026
Platinum Manchester Celebration
Join us in Manchester for ITM’s Platinum Celebration, one of our regional events marking ITM’s birthday and celebrating the strength of our Northern community. This intimate gathering provides a relaxed space to meet peers, exchange ideas and enjoy an evening dedicated to connection and conversation. Expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to catch up with colleagues and expand your local network. This celebration is a chance to come together, acknowledge our milestone year and enjoy the unique energy of the Manchester business travel community. Further information, including venue details and timings, will be released in due course. Each ticket include 2 drinks per person and canapés.
Showcase
Buyer Only 23 September 2026
Tech Showcase
This quick-fire format pushes each presenter to demonstrate what makes them an ideal partner. They’ll highlight key developments and innovations, and show how their solutions have adapted to meet the evolving needs of travel buyers and travellers in a constantly shifting landscape. Key takeaways * Benchmark suppliers and understand how they compare. * Discover what’s new across both established and emerging providers. * Ask anonymous questions directly to each presenter. What to expect * A Zoom event featuring concise, punchy presentations or demos from our selected suppliers, followed by a dedicated Q&A. * The option to ask anonymous questions throughout, helping you obtain the insights that matter most. * Chat functionality to share thoughts and discuss propositions with fellow buyer members on the call. Register for Part One here [https://www.itm.org.uk/events/evt-001045]
Conference
All Member 05 October 2026
Autumn Conference 2026
Explore the full event details, including the agenda, on our dedicated event page [http://itm.org.uk/autumn]. A PREMIER EVENT FOR BUSINESS TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL Join us at the ITM Autumn Conference to gain insights from industry leaders and participate in meaningful discussions on the latest trends, best practices and innovations in business travel. This event brings together over 500 professionals, fostering a collaborative environment to share ideas, explore industry shifts, and build connections that drive success. Key Takeaways • Discover best practices shaping the business travel industry. • Gain actionable insights from globally recognised travel leaders. • Connect with peers, thought leaders, and influential speakers. What to Expect A full-day event at a London venue, packed with senior-level speakers and engaging discussions designed to educate, inform, inspire and connect. Attendees can expect: • In-depth presentations and panel discussions led by pioneering industry voices. • Opportunities to network and exchange ideas with over 500 business travel professionals. •
Meeting
Buyer Only 08 October 2026
Chair’s Lunch: Platinum Edition
As part of ITM’s 70-year celebration, this Platinum Edition will be hosted by ITM Chair Gemma King. Connect with a small group of buyers to expand your network and debate pressing issues. Whether new to the industry or established in your role, this event aims to inspire thought-provoking discussion applicable to all programme sizes. Key takeaways * Establish and build valuable connections. * Learn from our diverse community and raise your profile within business travel. * Develop collaborations that contribute to positive change within the industry. What to expect * Round table meeting format with up to 15 buyers. * Open to all buyers, seats are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. * Dietary requirements you may have can be accommodated. Rated by your peers "The discussion was so informative as always, and we delved into a couple of other topics of interest, which was equally interesting…" "What a fantastic lunch and such value
Meeting
Buyer Only 13 October 2026
Buyer Knowledge Exchange
Virtual confidential forum for buyers to meet, share challenges and sense check their approach to key travel management issues. Each month 25+ like-minded buyers come together to discuss current priorities, compare thinking, and explore practical solutions. It’s an opportunity to gain reassurance, broaden your perspective, and raise concerns in a trusted space. Key takeaways * A sounding board for the latest industry changes * Confidence that your focus is on the right areas * Peer-to-peer advice and practical considerations * Shared experiences to help anticipate challenges What to expect * Zoom meeting format, with cameras encouraged to support participation * The option to suggest topics for discussion during registration * Time allocated for additional questions and follow-up connections * Option to contribute via the chat function if you prefer not to speak * Closed Captioning available Rated by your peers "I find these sessions invaluable. It’s great to have a safe space to ask
Webinar
All Member 15 October 2026
Inside the Mind of the Buyer
An open, honest and safe space for both buyers and suppliers to gain direct insight from experienced buyer voices. For suppliers, this session offers a rare chance to reverse the dynamic and ask buyers the questions that matter to you. For buyers, it’s an opportunity to hear how peers are thinking, what they’re working on and the challenges currently shaping their programmes. This is a live-only event and encourages open discussion. Submit your questions during registration to ensure they are covered, or ask them live on the day for full flexibility. Key takeaways * Validate best practices and gain invaluable insights. * Get to the heart of the issues affecting your sector. * Ask any question in confidence without being judged. What to expect * Zoom webinar format with tiled speakers and chat functionality. * Topics are collated from questions submitted during registration. * Questions submitted in advance take priority, however you can ask
Webinar
All Member 20 October 2026
Neurodiversity Webinar
Are our corporate travel policies neuroinclusive? How do we create genuinely inclusive travel experiences when one size doesn’t fit all? In this webinar Tiffany Casson and Christianna Best will bring together key learnings from our past webinars focussing on Accommodation, Meetings and Events and Business Travel and talk with one of our experienced UK Buyers, Alison Proud from Willis Towers Watson. A session not to be missed. This webinar forms part of ITM’s ongoing work to highlight the experiences of neurodiverse travellers and professionals, ensuring their voices remain central to industry discussions. By continuing to explore evolving challenges and opportunities, we aim to keep momentum behind a conversation that matters to our entire community. Rated by your peers “…there is no better way to encourage engagement than through people sharing their own stories and experiences…” “Great speakers who shared many examples” Related Resource Inntel's Inclusive Meetings & Events Checklist [https://www.itm.org.uk/resources/inclusive-meetings--events-checklist] How to Make Events
Social
All Member 21 October 2026
Platinum Scotland Celebration
Be part of ITM’s Platinum Celebration in Scotland, a regional event created to honour ITM’s birthday and bring together our vibrant Scottish business travel community. This smaller gathering offers a comfortable, friendly environment perfect for meaningful conversations and relaxed networking. Guests can enjoy a welcoming evening that reflects the spirit of Scotland’s travel professionals, with time to reconnect, make new contacts and celebrate this milestone year for ITM. It’s an ideal moment to acknowledge our collective achievements and the important role our Scottish members play within the wider ITM community. More details will be shared closer to the event. Each ticket include 2 drinks per person and canapés.
Social
All Member 17 November 2026
Platinum Ireland Celebration
Join us for ITM’s Platinum Celebration in Ireland, a regional gathering designed to bring our community together as part of ITM’s birthday celebrations. This relaxed social event offers the perfect setting to connect with colleagues, meet new peers and enjoy an evening that reflects the warmth and spirit of Ireland’s business travel community. Attendees can look forward to friendly conversation, meaningful networking and a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates ITM’s milestone year. Whether you are reconnecting with familiar faces or extending your network, this celebration offers a memorable moment to recognise our shared achievements across the region. Further event details will be shared closer to the date. Each ticket include 2 drinks per person and canapés.
