FCTG Establishes AI Centre of Excellence; Adrian Lopez Appointed Head of AI for Corporate

Dark/Light Mode (12/12/23)  Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG), one of the world’s largest travel management companies, has established a global division that will focus on promoting, adopting and integrating artificial intelligence technologies into the company’s corporate divisions.

The ‘AI Centre of Excellence’ has been created to revolutionise FCTG’s flagship business travel divisions Corporate Traveller and FCM by enriching customer experiences, boosting employee productivity and more.

Adrian Lopez

Most recently working as Global Chief Technology Officer for FCM Digital, Adrian Lopez has been appointed as Head of AI for Corporate, leading a dedicated team of technical experts responsible for laying out the shared corporate vision for AI within the organisation.

Adrian and a specialised team will implement best practices and provide research, support, and training around AI, with a focus on improving efficiency and driving value to new and existing clients. They will look to find ways to seamlessly integrate the technology into the operations of the company’s business travel divisions Corporate Traveller and FCM.

“I’m beyond excited for this next chapter in my career with FCTG and to further push the boundaries of technology in travel,” Adrian said. “The disruptive benefits of AI will enable us to work more efficiently, identify new ways to service our clients, and reach the next generation of business travellers. The launch of the ‘AI Centre of Excellence’ is another significant step and milestone to add to the company’s already decorated history of innovation.”

A travel technology pioneer, Adrian has over a decade of industry experience. In 2014, he co-founded the corporate travel tool SAM, a mobile AI-powered app that operates as a 24/7 virtual travel assistant, helping business travellers manage their trips.

FCTG made an initial investment in Sam in 2017, which was followed by a full acquisition in 2019. After the ownership transition, Adrian officially joined the FCTG team, where he has helped oversee the integration of Sam’s capabilities across various corporate travel products, while also leading the development of the new FCM Platform.

“In today’s ever-changing digital world, we recognise the tremendous potential with AI and ways it can transform our work,” said John Morhous, Global Chief Experience Officer of FCTG’s Corporate Brands. “As we continue to evolve and grow as a business, we’re thrilled for the opportunity to open this new ‘AI Centre of Excellence’, as well as appoint Adrian into this new leadership role. With his expertise, deep insights, and proven track record in technology innovation, Adrian will be integral to our success in this space, both today and in the years ahead.”

Located in Greece, Adrian will report into U.S.-based Morhous, effective immediately.

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