The Institute of Travel Management (ITM) has announced that two of the aviation sectors foremost leaders will give key note addresses at its ‘Revive’ annual conference next month.

Sean Doyle, who was appointed chief executive of British Airways in October 2020 will share his views with delegates on day one, 27^th April, into what needs to be done to chart the aviation sector’s recovery and safely resume travel.  And Robin Hayes, CEO, JetBlue Airways, will join the conference on day two, 28^th April to discuss the challenges for airlines as they look to revive their business whilst meeting today’s demand for sustainable solutions.

Since joining British Airways in 1998 as a financial analysist, Sean Doyle has held a number of senior roles including Finance Director BA Cargo, Head of Corporate Strategy and Executive Vice President British Airways Americas. In 2016 he was appointed to the airline’s executive Management Committee as Director of Network, Fleet & Alliances. Prior to his appointment as Chief Executive, Doyle was Chief Executive of Aer Lingus from January 2019. 

Robin Hayes joined JetBlue in 2008 and served as the company’s executive vice president and chief commercial officer until becoming president of the US carrier in 2014. He was appointed chief executive officer in 2015. Prior to joining JetBlue Hayes was executive vice president of the Americas at British Airways.

ITM has also confirmed that the conference speaker line up will feature another sporting legend, Martin Offiah, OBE, iconic ex-professional rugby player and champion of diversity and environmental issues.  

In addition to the conference business sessions, ITM is also planning a unique evening of virtual entertainment ‘The ITM Greatest Show’ on 27^th April in conjunction with HeadBox.  This social event is also open to non-delegates free of charge, enabling business travel professionals to invite colleagues for a much needed ‘night out’ to catch up with friends and lift team morale. Hosted within HeadBox’s stunning 3D virtual entertainment platform, guests will be able to enjoy a variety of acts including comedy, skills, dance and more. Attendees will be able to ‘work the room’ and meet members of the audience via chat, group video call or private message. 

Scott Davies, CEO, ITM commented: “Bringing our ITM community together each year for an uplifting conference programme is always a privilege. But it’s even more of a privilege in 2021 as our industry plans for recovery and revival.

“We are delighted that Sean Doyle and Robin Hayes will each be giving keynote sessions at our conference and sharing their valuable insights into how the aviation sector can rebuild and move forwards. It is also a pleasure to welcome Martin Offiah, whose passion and positive mindset around diversity and inclusion have made him one of the most effective and captivating speakers on the subject. These are definitely sessions not to be missed.”