“The Transformation of Travel Distribution Economics” discussion will include thought leaders in the industry – both driving the change in distribution strategy and affected by it – in a wide-ranging conversation on the current “direct connect” issue, to openly express opinions and possible outcomes. The Masters Program features numerous sessions providing an open forum to discuss and debate disruptive forces within the business travel industry and innovative ways for organizations to anticipate and respond to these changes. This year the Masters Program will feature such world-class speakers as Mr. Jack Welch, Former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the General Electric Company, and Dr. Clayton Christensen, Harvard Business School Professor and author of The Innovator’s Dilemma along with other industry leaders as part of these sessions.

“We are excited to add this discussion to an impressive slate of conversation topics and believe this is a critical exchange for our membership as this issue has the potential to have a widespread impact on everyone in business travel,” said Michael McCormick, Executive Director and COO, National Business Travel Association. “The Masters Program is the perfect opportunity to bring together industry leaders to examine and dissect this and other critical strategic issues facing the travel industry. This discussion will be one of the many throughout the program that shouldn’t be missed to get the most accurate and up to date information and understanding of “direct connects” and otherwise.“

The Masters Program will take place at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Washington, D.C. on February 7-8, 2011.