The Advantage Travel Partnership has announced the appointment of Stephen Baxendale to the newly created role of Technology Partnerships Manager.

As Technology Partnerships Manager, Baxendale will concentrate on helping to support the consortia’s members by strengthening the groups existing technology relationships and working with new solutions that are coming into the market.

Guy Snelgar, Global Business Travel Director of The Advantage Travel Partnership, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Stephen to the Global Business Travel team. This appointment follows the launch of our Technology Steering Group last summer, which was set up to help guide us through the key tech issues and solutions which are important to our members. Our focus for the future is very much on driving forward our plans in the technology arena and Stephen will play a key role in our strategy.”

Baxendale commented: “I’m excited to join the team and can’t wait to start meeting with partners and understanding the challenges and opportunities in the tech area to support our members.”

Stephen has over 20 years experience in the travel technology space and has helped travel agents to identify and implement solutions to improve their booking workflow. He has held previous roles at Travelport and Conferma, as well as the Office for National Statistics (ONS), and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).

Kevin Trill from Blue Cube Travel and chair of the Advantage Technology Steering Group commented on Baxendale’s appointment: “I look forward to working with Stephen as we continue to focus on exploring a range of technology solutions for the membership. Navigating the world of business travel technology is tricky even for seasoned professionals. What works well for one TMC does not mean it will work for another. The steering group's consultative approach enables us to provide members with an informed view to support their decision-making process and Stephen is critical in us achieving this.”