With over 25 years of travel industry experience, Sikes is one of the most talented travel management company executives in the industry today, offering a stellar strength in operational expertise. In her new role, Sikes will drive strategic operational efficiencies and innovative client-driven services and solutions for Direct Travel’s national operations. These initiatives include a focus on best practices, process improvements, automated systems applications, quality and productivity goals and standards to ensure strategic and tactical objectives are achieved. Sikes will also be instrumental in rolling out new technologies.
“Christine’s appointment is part of our overall endeavor and vision of helping our clients stay ahead of the accelerating pace of change. A consultative approach in every facet of our business is critical. Her proven track record in developing and implementing successful client-driven programs has distinguished her as an operational leader, and she’s the perfect fit with our corporate culture,” said Ed Adams, Direct Travel CEO.
Holding numerous key leadership roles, Sikes was most recently Vice President of Program Management for Carlson Wagonlit Travel’s (CWT) SatoTravel Military & Government division, where she was responsible for account management of client relationships as well as Group Travel Services.
“Christine has been deeply involved in the implementation and transformation of a number of high profile accounts and she is highly respected and recognized across the travel industry,” said John Coffman, Direct Travel CFO. “Her arrival is timely as we move forward with our strategic direction and operational plan to expand through acquisition and organic growth.”
At Direct Travel, Christine joins colleagues and several key executives who established Navigant International. Together, they are committed to filling what they believe to be a vacancy in the industry’s landscape for organizations seeking a travel management solution for middle market corporate travel budgets.
“I was drawn to this opportunity because of the incredible energy level coming from Direct Travel— from a commitment to service and innovation, to the rapid growth taking place across the enterprise,” said Sikes. “I am thrilled to be joining Direct Travel at a time when it is positioned for such growth and future success.”