Flight Centre’s FCM Meetings & Events (FCM M&E) has announced a global expansion of the business that will see industry expert Simone Seiler moving into the role of Global General Manager.
With all the global meeting and events businesses rolled into one, Ms Seiler’s priorities will include the development of innovative technology solutions and investing in extra talent.
“We believe the meetings, events, and event travel markets are ripe for disruption worldwide,” Ms Seiler said.
“With this investment, we’re well-positioned to capitalise on the growing demand for high-quality and personalised event experiences that has seen an exponential bounceback.”
A recent white paper by FCM M&E, the “GBTA – 2023 Business Travel Index Outlook – Annual Global Report & Forecast”, revealed that MICE market size in terms of revenue is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 6.6 per cent from 2022 to 2030.
“It’s clear the demand for in-person connection continues to increase, with recent data showing conferences and events being one of the top two reasons for travel among both SME owners and decision-makers,” Ms Seiler said.
“What’s particularly exciting is just how big the MICE industry is globally, and we know we have an incredible opportunity to both grow and position ourselves as the travel management company of choice for meetings, events, and event travel.”
Ms Seiler said FCM M&E is anticipating a steady annual growth rate of demand at 12 per cent year on year for in-person meetings.
FCM Global Managing Director, Marcus Eklund, said the business has a footprint in more than 100 countries and the GBTA white paper showed more than 80 per cent of executives prefer in-person meetings to virtual contact.
“With our superior technology and decades of industry experience within our teams, we couldn’t be in a better position to capitalise on industries that are desperate to be back to face-to-face,” he said.
“I’d also like to offer my congratulations to Simone, who has been part of the very fabric of our M&E business for many years.”
