Advantage Travel Partnership has announced the appointment of Pelin Dede as the new head of accommodation. This role, newly created within the consortium, aims to enhance and expand their Global Accommodation Programme.
Pelin Dede is set to lead significant transitions, including the launch of the Global Stays joint venture with Hickory Global Partners in 2025. Her extensive experience in the travel industry positions her as the ideal candidate for this strategic role.
Strategic Role and Responsibilities
In her new role, Pelin Dede will oversee the launch of the Global Stays programme, integrating it into Advantage Travel Partnership’s Global Accommodation Programme. This initiative aims to significantly expand the group’s accommodation offerings, providing members with access to over 60,000 properties worldwide.
Dede’s responsibilities also include managing commercial partnerships with serviced apartment providers and aggregator partners, enhancing the overall global accommodation content. Her expertise will be pivotal in negotiating supplier contracts and ensuring the smooth transition of the new programme.
A Strong Background in Travel Industry
Pelin Dede brings a wealth of experience to her new position, having begun her career in 2006 at Orbitz Worldwide in Chicago. She later moved to London, where she joined the Expedia Group and worked for six years. In 2018, Dede joined CWT as a senior manager within its global suppliers team.
Andrea Caulfield-Smith, global business travel managing director at Advantage Travel Partnership, expressed her confidence in Dede’s capabilities, stating, “We are thrilled Pelin has joined the team to spearhead our Global Accommodation Programme at a time of transition. Her expertise and strategic vision are invaluable.”
Enhancing Member Benefits
Advantage Travel Partnership’s Global Accommodation Programme is designed to provide members with extensive benefits, including access to a vast network of properties. The introduction of Global Stays is expected to enhance these benefits by offering more opportunities for hotel and serviced apartment suppliers.
Pelin Dede commented on her new role, saying, “In my first few weeks, I have been meeting existing and prospective partners to discuss the potential of our global accommodation programme. I am excited to contribute to the development and expansion of this initiative.”
Joint Venture with Hickory Global Partners
The Global Stays initiative is a joint venture between Advantage Travel Partnership and Hickory Global Partners, set to launch in 2025. This collaboration aims to deliver a comprehensive accommodation solution for the group’s members, combining resources and expertise from both organisations.
The joint venture will offer members a wide selection of over one million serviced apartments and 60,000 properties, all bookable through the Global Distribution System (GDS). This expansive offering will provide unparalleled flexibility and convenience for members.
Market Position and Strategic Importance
The accommodation sector remains a vital part of Advantage Travel Partnership’s overall strategy. The group plans to leverage its size and scale to deliver greater growth and continued member benefits. The Global Stays programme is seen as a key component in this strategy, aiming to strengthen the group’s market position.
Andrea Caulfield-Smith highlighted the strategic importance of this sector, stating, “This market-leading global accommodation proposition will soon be strengthened through our relationship with US-based Hickory Global Partners with the launch of Global Stays.”
Future Directions and Goals
With the introduction of Global Stays, Advantage Travel Partnership is positioning itself for future growth. The initiative is expected to provide significant advantages to members, offering a diverse range of accommodation options and competitive pricing.
Pelin Dede’s leadership will be crucial in driving the strategy and ensuring that the programme meets its goals. Her proactive approach and industry knowledge are expected to play a key role in shaping the future of the group’s accommodation offerings.
The appointment of Pelin Dede marks a significant step forward for Advantage Travel Partnership. Her experience and strategic vision are poised to drive the group’s Global Accommodation Programme to new heights.
With the upcoming launch of Global Stays, members can look forward to enhanced benefits and an expanded range of accommodation options, solidifying Advantage Travel Partnership’s position as a leader in the travel industry.
