A World Cup–Inspired Playbook for the Future of Business Travel

GAME PLAN

Opening Kickoff: Setting the Pitch

8:30 AM - 9:00 AM | Registration and Networking

9:00 – 9:15 AM | The Kickoff Whistle Blows

Melody Haislip, VP National Sales Island   Hospitality. President GBTA | Georgia

Debbie Sievert, Global Sales Manager Travel   Inc. Education Director GBTA | Georgia.

 GBTA | Georgia Chapter Leadership
Welcome remarks and a kickoff to a full day of insights, teamwork, and forward-thinking strategy as we prepare for the next era of managed travel.

9:15-9:25 Venue Sponsor: Welcome from the Brookhaven City Centre Team
David Kemp, Director City Centre Events and International Sales, Brookhaven
Be among the first to experience one of metro Atlanta's newest, premier venues. A stunning showcase for domestic and global travelers, corporate and association events and private functions.

9:25 – 10:00 AM | Opening Keynote: Atlanta Takes the World Stage
 Speaker: William Pate, President & CEO, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau

Match Focus: Atlanta Events, Economic Impact & What It Means for Business Travel
A powerhouse look at Atlanta’s global moment, economic growth and infrastructure investment, and what it means for travel, meetings, and mobility as our city steps onto the world stage. 

10:00 – 10:15 | Sponsor Spotlight: Redefining the Playbook
 Speaker: Kathy Bedell, SVP, Americas & Affiliate Programs BCD Travel. Education Day Premier Sponsor

Match Focus: The Tech-Enabled Travel Manager: From Good to World-Class
If soccer isn’t your thing, all you need to know is this: even the best players don’t make it to the World Cup on talent alone – it takes the right mix of training, teammates, and strategy to compete on the world stage. Travel managers are no different: you’re the player, and your tech stack is what boosts your efficiency to a world-class level. Think of automation, AI, and integrated platforms as your speed training, on-field vision, and high-performance gear – each unlocking new ways to move faster and work smarter. You’ll leave with a stronger understanding of the tech that drives program success – so you can perform at your best, whether on the field or at your desk.

10:15-10:45 | Locker Room Refresh 

Networking, refreshments, and exhibitor engagement.

⚽ Late Morning | The Group Stage: Buyer & Supplier Strategy

10:45-11:45 | Buyer Panel: Buyer and Supplier Strategy: The Group Stage

    Moderator: Bob Somers, SVP Global Sales, Delta Air Lines

Panelists:

Laura Gavulic, Manager, Corporate Travel Program, Southern Company

Amanda Somers, Senior Director Global Travel, Koch

Jennifer Steinke, Strategic Global Travel, Expense & Meetings Leader, Moderna

 Top Georgia-based travel buyers share what’s next for policy, cost strategy, traveler experience, and supplier collaboration. Grounded in trust, transparency, and continuous improvement, this panel highlights how Atlanta’s corporate community is shaping the future of business travel—together.

Match Discussion Topics:

• Program priorities for 2026 and beyond
• Balancing cost control with traveler experience
• Policy evolution, compliance challenges, and internal alignment
• What buyers need most from suppliers and TMC partners to win long-term
  
  

11:45am-11:50am Legislative Minute
  Amy Smith,  Lead Global Account Manager. GBTA Georgia Secretary.

11:50 AM-1:00 PM | Half Time Fan Zone

Lunch, Peer Connections, and Exhibitor Showcase

🌍 The Second Half | Innovation & Execution

1:00-1:45 | VAR Review: Travel Technology & Program Design
Speaker: Jennifer Steinke, Director Travel, Meetings & Fleet | Procurement Moderna

Match Focus: AI - Today, Tomorrow, Forever!

Artificial Intelligence is no longer a future concept in managed travel — it’s already shaping how programs operate, engage travelers, and deliver value. 

Explore how AI can be practically integrated into managed travel programs—from smarter booking experiences and automated workflows to data‑driven insights. What’s possible today, what’s emerging next, and how to build toward long‑term transformation.

 We will focus on critical AI guardrails, including governance, corporate AI policies, data privacy, and ethical use. Learn how AI can elevate the traveler experience through personalization, proactive support, and reduced friction, while maintaining trust and transparency.

🏆 Late Afternoon | Power Plays in Lodging and Meetings

1:45 PM – 2:30 PM | Supplier Spotlight: The Hotel Strategy Playbook.

The State of Corporate Travel & Meetings

Speaker: Chris Hardman, President and CEO Georgia Hotel & Lodging Association (GHLA)

Match Focus: Hospitality, Policy Shifts & Market Dynamics
Insights into lodging trends, workforce challenges, pricing pressures, and what travel leaders should expect over the next 12–24 months.

2:30-2:45 | Hydration Break, Networking & Supplier Showcase

2:45-3:45 | Championship Mindset Session: Connection Over Perfection

Speaker: Kathy Bearden, Managing Partner & President, KBearden & Associates
Strategic Relationships Consultant | Leadership Coach | Storyteller

Match Focus: “It’s Not About Perfection… It’s About Connection.”
In every great team, connection drives performance. Learn how to use your strengths, skills, and personal stories to communicate more authentically, build trust, and create meaningful impact across your organization and partnerships.

🥅 Final Whistle | Closing Session

3:45-4:00 PM | Post-Match Analysis: Key Takeaways & What’s Next and Raffle Drawing

4:00 PM |
Optional Tours of the stunning Brookhaven City Centre

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The Fan Experience | Networking, Exhibitor Showcases & Fan‑Zone Engagement

8:30 AM-4:00 PM High-energy Breaks, Meet Your Expo Exhibitor  time, and Peer Connections make this an ideal day of learning and growth with continuous Attendee Interaction.

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Thank You To Our Sponsors and Exhibitors

Education Day Premier Sponsor	GBTA Georgia Cornerstone Sponsor	Venue Sponsor
Food & Beverage Sponsor	A/VSponsor	Visit Our Vendor Expo Exhibitors

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