Amex GBT names Drew Crawley as new CEO

American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) announced a leadership transition, with Drew Crawley succeeding Paul Abbott as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

Abbott, who led Amex GBT for seven years, will move to a new role as Operating Partner with Long Lake, the company's private equity partner. During his tenure, Abbott oversaw the acquisitions of Egencia and CWT, the company's public listing in 2022, and a take-private transaction described by the company as the first AI-focused deal of its kind.

Crawley joined Amex GBT six years ago and most recently served as President, overseeing commercial functions, customer relationships, supplier partnerships, and global operations and technology. Before joining Amex GBT, he held chief executive roles at IAG Loyalty and IAG Cargo and spent a decade at British Airways in senior commercial positions, including Chief Commercial Officer. He has more than 25 years of experience in travel, aviation, logistics, and loyalty.

Alex Taubman, Chief Executive Officer of Long Lake, said Abbott "has been instrumental to Amex GBT's success" and that Crawley's "leadership, deep industry expertise, and trusted relationships with customers and partners have been central to that success."

Crawley said the company will focus on "delivering on the promise of high-tech and high-touch solutions" with the support of Long Lake's applied AI expertise.

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