Harnessing the power of AI: FCTG opens the AI Center of Excellence

Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) is poised to ‘harness the power’ of artificial intelligence with the establishment of an AI Center of Excellence — a new global division that will focus on promoting, adopting, and integrating artificial intelligence technologies into the company’s corporate divisions.

It’s a move that’s focused on revolutionizing FCTG’s business travel divisions –Corporate Traveller and FCM — by enriching customer experiences, boosting employee productivity and more.

Adrian Lopez will step into a newly created role as Head of AI for Corporate, where he will lead a dedicated team of technical experts responsible for laying out the shared corporate vision for AI within the organization.

Lopez most recently served as Global Chief Technology Officer for FCM Digital.

He and his team will set the overall AI strategy for FCTG’s corporate brands and ensure the company is maximizing the potential around generative AI, while doing so effectively, responsibly, and in alignment with its business objectives.

The specialized 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.

It will also look to find ways to seamlessly integrate the technology into the operations of the company’s business travel divisions Corporate Traveller and FCM.

John Morhous, Global Chief Experience Officer of FCTG’s Corporate Brands, observed that: “In today’s ever-changing digital world, we recognize the tremendous potential with AI and ways it can transform our work.”

Morhous pointed out that: “As we continue to evolve and grow as a business, we’re thrilled for the opportunity to open this new ‘AI Center 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.”

FCTG is aiming to strengthen the relationship between the human workforce and hands-on AI applications with the launch of the ‘AI Center of Excellence.’

The incredible automation and machine learning that AI offers will prove to be a perfect complement to the personal touch and natural intuition of the human mind. Furthermore, FCTG will leverage AI to enhance productivity and improve workflow optimization, allowing its teams to focus on priority initiatives and more creative-driven projects.

Lopez said that: “I’m beyond excited for this next chapter in my career with FCTG and to further push the boundaries of technology in travel.”

He continued: “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 Center of Excellence’ is another significant step and milestone to add to the company’s already decorated history of innovation.”

A travel technology pioneer, Lopez 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 easily 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, Lopez 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.

Lopez will be based in Greece and will report into Americas-based Morhous, with his role effective immediately.

Go to www.fctgl.com for more.