Two veteran authorities of the global business travel management profession – Ian Girvan of BHP Billiton and Mike Bezer of Carlson Wagonlit Travel – received industry accolades from an audience that spanned more than 20 countries at the Association of Corporate Travel Executives’ (ACTE) 7th Annual Asia-Pacific Education Conference, in Singapore today.

“ACTE’s Asia-Pacific region constitutes one of our fastest growing constituencies,” said ACTE President Richard Crum. “Not only have ACTE members in the Asia-Pacific sector paved the way for their companies in the implementation of innovative procedures and new methodologies, but they have begun to lead the industry in the development of new technology and best practices specially suited for companies seeking to do business here as well.”

Ian Girvan, Global Supply Manager – Travel for BHP Billiton, was nominated to receive ACTE’s Advancing the Industry Award for an outstanding performance of incorporating a balance of consolidation, procurement principles, new technology, and a series of enhancements designed to boost traveller productivity, while reducing stress. Girvan’s nomination was secured by ACTE’s Asia-Pacific council, who determined that BHP Billiton’s travel program incorporated a majority of the association’s practices to traveller advantage.

“I’m both honored and flattered to have received this honor on behalf of BHP Billiton and the business travel industry,” said Girvan. “This award is a tremendous distinction and professional recognition for ideas and concepts that I developed through my relationship with ACTE. Thank you for your generous accolades and for your support.”

ACTE’s coveted Corporate Social Responsibility Award was presented to Mike Bezer, Vice President Sales and Account Management Asia-Pacific, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, the first time this award has been given in the Asia-Pacific region. A well-known and respected leader in both industry and ACTE circles, Bezer is the former Asia-Pacific Regional Chair, a former ACTE board member, and a driving force behind the planning and execution of the association’s programs in the region.

Bezer and Carlson Wagonlit Travel were both honored for their efforts in introducing an environmentally gentle travel program that provides long-term benefits for both travellers and the planet. This honor was especially well-timed as ACTE leadership is striving for one of the lowest carbon footprints ever achieved at a major regional conference.

“No one had ever heard of Corporate Social Responsibility four years ago,” said Bezer. “Today, we are proud to say the CWT offering for clients always incorporates a CSR element. My company and I are very honored for the recognition this ACTE award brings and for the message it imparts. This is an honor that benefits us all!”

Complete professional bios of Ian Girvan and Mike Bezer are available on the ACTE website (www.acte.org), along with their related accomplishments during their tenure with the association.

The ACTE Asia-Pacific Education Conference drew 460 attendees from 21 countries, with 48 percent ranking travel management executives (director or above) and a high percentage of corporate buyers (37 percent), with 52 percent by company.