While we’ve seen a major rebound in travel demand, hoteliers are moving into 2023 with uncertainty. Economic and global factors, plus COVID-19 hangovers like labour and resource shortages are major challenges. In this session, Sojern will be sharing upcoming travel trends and insights, as well as how hoteliers can use data and tap into the powers of digital multichannel marketing to win the battle for direct bookings, in order to maximise the impact of their spend, and deliver results for their property.

This will then be followed by a panel debate where our panelists will share their insights on the latest trends, best practices, and strategies for creating a successful direct booking program, building a loyalty program that drives customer retention, and implementing an effective CRM system to optimize customer interactions and drive revenue growth.

You’ll have the opportunity to network with other industry professionals, ask questions of our expert panelists, and come away with actionable insights that you can apply to your own business.

Terence Baker is an accomplished journalist and editor with over 20 years of expertise in the hospitality industry. He is currently the News Editor, Europe, Middle East & Africa at Hotel News Now, renowned for his insightful coverage of the latest industry trends and market insights. Terence is an engaging speaker, with a talent for breaking down complex topics into accessible and informative presentations. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge and insights to help others gain a deeper understanding of the industry.

Celine Chaussegros is the Managing Director Europe for Sojern. Celine is a seasoned executive with over 15 years of experience in travel and hospitality. She is currently the Managing Director for Europe at Sojern, renowned for her strategic leadership and expertise in digital marketing and data-driven decision-making. Celine is an accomplished speaker, sharing insights on travel industry trends.

Julie White was appointed Vice President Commercial for EMEA at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts in January 2020. In her role, she is responsible for supporting the Commercial activities of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts’ brands driving collaboration across loyalty, sales, revenue management, distribution and marketing to maximize the performance of managed and franchised hotels across the EMEA region.

18:00

Doors Open

18:15

Welcome
by Michael Nowlis, Programme Director, Leadership Programmes at Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) and Chair of the HSMAI Europe Board of Directors

18:20

Introduction of moderator
Terence Baker, News Editor Europe, Middle East & Africa at Hotel News Now

18:25

Supercharge Your Direct Booking Strategy for 2023
by Celine Chaussegros, Managing Director at Sojern

18:50

Panel debate: Understanding the true value of loyalty programmes
A panel debate focused on Direct Bookings, Loyalty Programs & CRM, with the following panellists:

• Terence Baker, News Editor Europe, Middle East & Africa at Hotel News Now
• Celine Chaussegros, Managing Director at Sojern
• Julie White, VP Commercial EMEA at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

19:40

Drinks & Networking

HSMAI – Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International – is a global organization founded in the US in 1927. HSMAI Region Europe is the European arm of the organisation. HSMAI Europe aims to be a key influencer, pioneer and the go-to industry resource for professional development, commercial strategies and sustainability in the hospitality, travel and tourism industry. Read More