Travellanda strengthens strategy and direct contracting with two appointments

Two senior hires to drive strategy and direct contracting

Travellanda, the world’s largest aggregator of independent Destination Management Companies (DMCs), has announced two appointments to support its growth roadmap. Ali Taheri joins the board of directors and the shareholder group to lead a newly created Strategy function, taking charge of the development and execution of a three-year, KPI-led roadmap. Meanwhile, Gennaro Vitale becomes Vice President Global Contracting to lead and expand the company’s direct contracting strategy, described as a pillar of future growth. The London-based company says the moves are designed to reinforce its global position.

Taheri will structure and then steer a three-year plan paced by KPIs to accelerate growth and better align operations across functions. His brief is to bring a cross-cutting and measurable view of Travellanda’s expansion. The company highlights his sector experience gained at Hotelbeds, Tourico and DOTW.

Vitale takes responsibility for supplier partnerships and worldwide direct hotel contracting, drawing on experience at HBX Group and Hotelbeds. He is tasked with evolving the organisation and processes to increase both the volume and quality of inventory under direct contracts. Direct contracting is defined by the company as a major value-creation lever for the years ahead, combining technological efficiency with human relationships across the travel ecosystem.

Travellanda positions itself as the world’s largest aggregator of independent DMCs. Powered by proprietary technology and supported by offices in several international locations, the company says it connects more than 31,000 travel professionals worldwide with accommodation and ground services across the globe.