Emerging Travel Group, a global leader in travel solutions, has strengthened its corporate travel segment with the strategic appointment of industry expert Sergiu Les as Head of Corporate Department. Known for its brands RateHawk, ZenHotels, and Roundtrip, Emerging Travel Group is positioning itself to expand its reach in the corporate travel market with Les leading its corporate brand, Roundtrip.
Based in Strasbourg, France, Les will oversee Roundtrip’s strategy for small and medium-sized businesses, supported by a team of over 50 professionals. His focus will be on refining product development, advancing the go-to-market strategy, and ensuring high standards in sales and customer satisfaction. Roundtrip, a travel management platform launched in 2022, offers clients access to over 2.6 million accommodation options and flight and transfer services across 150 countries, and has quickly grown to serve over 4,500 partners.
With over 20 years in travel management and technology across the EMEA region, Les brings significant expertise from his previous roles, including Global Sales Director at CWT, where he led customer acquisition for enterprise accounts. He also held senior roles at Navan (formerly TripActions) and American Express Global Business Travel.
Felix Shpilman, CEO of Emerging Travel Group, commented on the appointment, stating, “Sergiu’s extensive background and leadership are exactly what Emerging Travel Group needs as we look to scale our corporate travel solutions further. His arrival coincides with a key period for us to strengthen our market presence.”
Les himself expressed excitement, saying, “Joining Emerging Travel Group is an incredible opportunity. I am thrilled to help build and expand the corporate travel solutions at a time when customer engagement and high-performing teams are more crucial than ever. I look forward to advancing the company’s success and growth into new markets.”
The UAE-based Emerging Travel Group has seen substantial growth, with a 2023 gross transaction value of $2.6 billion, supported by a team of over 2,800 employees across 80 countries and offices in Dubai, London, Berlin, Lisbon, and more. Through brands like Roundtrip, the company continues to redefine the corporate travel experience with a global footprint in over 190 source markets.