Lee Whiteing, Commercial Director at Global Secure Accreditation and winner of the Game Changer Team Award

How does it feel to win an ITM Achievement Award?

It is a fantastic achievement and a huge honour to receive this award and is a testament to the hard work of the GSA team, which is committed to bringing about meaningful change within the travel sector. 

How did you get into business travel?

I started out working for HSBC in various roles before becoming a travel and fleet manager for the UK, ending up as the Global Lead. During this time, I gained a deep understanding of the industry, which centred around putting the needs of travellers first, whilst maintaining control of the organisation’s budgets and risks. I understand first-hand the challenges travel managers face when assessing and managing risk across hundreds of destinations worldwide, so I am well-placed to offer guidance and support to those who need it.

What’s the best thing about your present job?

The desire to deliver actionable results and transformational change in the travel risk sector drives me. That’s why I was so excited to join GSA. Its offering, which includes accommodation security and travel risk management programme assessment and accreditation, is a huge step forward in the industry - one that I am committed to promoting.

What advice would you give to someone looking to get into the business travel industry?

Firstly, do it! It’s a great industry with such a fantastic bunch of people who all genuinely look out for
each other. It can be quite close-knit at times but the friendships you forge will be worth all the effort
you put in.

What’s the favourite place you’ve travelled to and why?

The Maldives. A cabin on stilts with your own aquarium right under your feet, like heaven on earth.
Alternatively, anywhere where England is playing a test match!

What would be your Desert Island item?

If there’s coverage, my phone! If not, a beer tap that never runs out. It’s important to keep hydrated.