Leaders in Luxury

December 1, 2011 By: Meagan Drillinger, Ruthanne Terrero, Jena Tesse Fox, Susan Young Travel Agent

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Every year, Travel Agent magazine and our sister publication Luxury Travel Advisor take a close look at the movers and shakers of the luxury travel scene. Some of the names are well known. Some prefer to work their magic in the sidelines. All of them are dynamic leaders whose work deserves to be recognized.

The Leaders in Luxury awards go to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in four distinct industry categories. The recipients will be honored on December 6 during the Luxury Travel Expo at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas.

Nicholas Clayton, president of Viceroy Hotel Group, is this year’s honoree in the Hotels & Resorts category. Under his guidance, the brand has earned numerous awards from consumers, and will be expanding in the Maldives and Bodrum in the coming years.

All About Travel/Platinum Vacations’ President Gary Davis is being recognized as top Travel Advisor. He advises agents to focus on the value that they know they can bring to each deal, rather than trying to be all things to all clients.

MSC Cruises USA President Richard Sasso, a 40-year veteran of the business, is the Cruise leader this year, thanks in part to his promotion of the “ship within a ship” concept that offers exclusive suites and experiences for top cruise clients.

Greg Tepper, president of Exeter International, takes the top Tour Operator spot, thanks to his dedication to bring out the luxury side of Russia and Eastern Europe.

What do all of these businessmen have in common? They all look for something missing in their sector and try to fill it. Whether it’s an underserved destination, a new level of service or a unique experience, the true visionaries will find some way to set them—and their businesses—apart.

The editorial staff of Travel Agent and Luxury Travel Advisor is pleased to bestow these individuals with the recognition they deserve as they continue to change the face of the industry, setting new standards in selling luxury travel.

Read on to learn more about these outstanding leaders.

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