Gray Dawes Travel is launching operations in North America following the announcement of two key appointments – and has hinted an acquisition in North America is imminent.
The UK-based travel management company has selected Michel Botbol as chairman of the board (North America), while Carolann Martini will take on the role of chief customer officer.
The move follows Gray Dawes’ recent entry into the Australian market with the acquisition of local travel management company MP Travel.
Suzanne Horner, Gray Dawes Group’s CEO, said: “Our expansion into the US is incredibly exciting. It represents the next step in our global growth plan and closes the circle on our unique service delivery strategy.
“With a shared technology platform across the Gray Dawes operation, our clients will enjoy a seamless personal service as we follow the sun from the UK to Australia to America. Michel and Carolann's appointments are just the beginning of our expansion into the Americas; we have even more exciting news to share very soon."
Botbol joins Gray Dawes from Frosch International Travel and he has also worked for Ultramar Travel Management during his career in corporate travel. Meanwhile Martini will move to Gray Dawes from TakeTwo Travel Solutions having previously held roles at CTM and Ultramar.
“I have long been an admirer of both Michel and Carolann: what they achieved in their respective careers at Ultramar and beyond has been extraordinary and their knowledge of the North American market, New York especially, is unrivalled,” added Horner.