WITH THE LAUNCH of its third membership tier, the Institute of Travel Management (ITM) is looking forward to a potential boost to its 1,000-strong membership. The new category of 'Industry Practitioner' grants separate status to TMC, HBA and VPA account managers, outsourced travel managers and consultants working for buyer organisations.
As Industry Practitioners, they will pay an annual subscription of £199 and will receive half-price conference delegate rates, free places at all other ITM educational events, and free research and reports, as well as other benefits previously available only to ITM buyer members, including access to Project ICARUS.
Predicting up to 100 new members within the next six months, ITM executive director Paul Tilstone says: "Account management is now a business discipline in its own right. Many play an integral role in shaping their client's corporate travel policies, so we believe it is right that they should be recognised accordingly."
ITM's 2009 conference takes place at the Liverpool Arena and Convention Centre from March 25-27. Liverpool Arena and Convention Centre from March 25-27.