Kurt Ekert
Global distribution system operator Sabre has named Kurt
Ekert, the former president and CEO of travel management company CWT, as
president effective 3 January, the company announced Wednesday. Sean Menke will
continue as Sabre's CEO, a role that will be separate from the role of
president.
"We are thrilled to have Kurt join Sabre as president
during this pivotal phase in our transformation journey," Menke said in a
statement. "He brings extensive global operating leadership and a deep
understanding of the travel technology ecosystem."
Ekert will oversee all aspects of the company's business and
technology operations. He will report to Menke, whose focus will be on
accelerating the execution of the company's strategic plans, according to
Sabre.
Menke added that Sabre was focused on creating a new
marketplace for personalised travel, and that Ekert's experience,
"especially in corporate travel management and global distribution is a
critical step toward achieving that goal".
Ekert will receive an annual salary of $750,000, with a
target bonus set at 125 per cent of his base salary, and will receive an
initial equity grant valued at $1 million consisting of restricted stock units,
according to a company filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission.
Most recently Ekert served as president and CEO of CWT from
2016 until 1 May 2021, then remained as a senior advisor to the company.
"Sabre has an agreement with CWT pursuant to which Sabre provides CWT with
access to its GDS and pays incentive fees to CWT, and CWT purchases certain
products from Sabre," according to the SEC document. Prior to joining CWT,
Ekert served as EVP and chief commercial officer of rival GDS operator
Travelport from 2010 to 2015.
In addition, Sabre announced that Dave Shirk will step down
as EVP and president of Sabre Travel Solutions as of 1 January 2022 and will
serve as a senior advisor to Menke and Ekert through 2022.