On the heels of industry chatter last week that long-time United Airlines worldwide sales executive Dave Hilfman would come out of retirement to take the reins as interim CEO at the Global Business Travel Association, the organization this week clarified that Hilfman's official title will be executive director.
Hilfman steps in at a time of organizational upheaval at GBTA as well as at a time of calamity for business travel with the brutal effects of Covid-19 touching every corner of the industry.
"When you see what the travel industry is up against right now -- both in terms of a worldwide pandemic and a global economic slowdown -- this is a pivotal moment for all of us and for GBTA. I've never shied away from a challenge and I'm looking forward to helping my many, many dear friends and colleagues meet these challenges with creativity, collaboration and commitment," Hilfman said in a press statement.
Results of an investigation into allegations lodged against CEO Scott Solombrino are not clear. Solombrino was put on administrative leave a month ago, pending that resolution.
Source: Business Travel News