In a groundbreaking move set to transform the landscape of business travel communications, a team of seasoned travel industry veterans from the United Kingdom has unveiled Kintela, a dynamic new agency poised to revolutionize corporate events and strategic communications worldwide. The founders, each with extensive backgrounds at prestigious global firms, have come together with a mission to redefine how business travel companies communicate and engage through live experiences. As the travel sector rapidly evolves in the wake of the pandemic, Kintela enters the market at a pivotal moment, offering a fresh, UK-rooted perspective on global business travel engagement.
Kintela represents a significant shift in the business travel sector, where traditional communication methods are no longer sufficient to meet the demands of a post-pandemic world. The agency aims to bridge the gap between strategic messaging and immersive event experiences, providing tailored solutions that seamlessly integrate storytelling, experiential design, and deep industry insights. With a focus on delivering innovative communications strategies, Kintela is set to cater specifically to organizations operating within or adjacent to the travel sector.
As the demand for engaging and brand-aligned interactions grows, Kintela’s unique approach combines powerful live experiences with strategic communications. This hybrid model is increasingly vital as businesses seek to connect with their stakeholders in more meaningful ways. The agency will offer a comprehensive suite of services including brand storytelling, corporate communications, internal engagement, customer events, media relations, and experiential design, thereby positioning itself as an essential partner for companies navigating the complexities of the modern travel landscape.
The Visionaries Behind Kintela
At the helm of Kintela is a distinguished team whose expertise spans decades in the travel and professional services sectors. Leading the charge is Martin Ferguson, Kintela’s Managing Partner, who brings a wealth of experience from his previous role as Vice President of Global Communications, Public Affairs, and Events at American Express Global Business Travel. His leadership will be instrumental in guiding the agency’s strategic direction and service offerings, ensuring they resonate with the evolving needs of clients.
Joining him is Karen Hutchings, renowned for her transformative work as Global Head of Travel, Meetings & Events at EY. After launching her consultancy in 2024, Hutchings adds depth in high-level consulting and procurement expertise, further solidifying Kintela’s capabilities. Another key player is Sallyanne Heywood, a veteran marketing strategist with a proven track record at HRG and Amex GBT. Heywood leads the agency’s brand and communications strategy, leveraging her extensive knowledge of industry dynamics and customer engagement to create compelling narratives that resonate with target audiences.
Kintela also boasts the talents of Nigel Mead, a respected presenter and event host, who will oversee experience design. With a knack for storytelling and on-stage delivery, Mead is set to craft captivating live and hybrid event experiences that leave lasting impressions on attendees. Finally, Stewart Harvey, former President of BCD Travel in the EMEA region, serves as Strategic Advisor, guiding clients through complex commercial challenges while ensuring Kintela’s offerings align with their growth goals.
Addressing the Needs of a Changing Industry
The launch of Kintela comes at a crucial juncture for the global business travel sector, which is undergoing rapid transformation. As organizations reassess their internal and external communication strategies amid a landscape shaped by remote work, sustainability concerns, and budget constraints, there is a pressing need for specialized agencies that can deliver value-driven experiences. Traditional models of corporate events and communication are no longer adequate; businesses now require highly curated, personalized engagement that resonates with their stakeholders.
Kintela positions itself as the solution to these challenges, offering a deep understanding of the travel industry’s unique rhythms. By delivering purposeful messaging and impactful event delivery, Kintela aims to elevate brand perception, enhance employee involvement, and strengthen client loyalty. This strategic focus is particularly relevant in a time when organizations are keen to foster stronger connections with their audiences, whether through in-person gatherings or digital platforms.
The Future of Business Travel Engagement
Looking forward, Kintela plans to collaborate closely with clients across various sectors, including corporate travel, hospitality, events, and professional services. The agency’s founders believe that the combination of smart, strategic communication with well-executed live experiences can drive not only brand visibility but also tangible business outcomes. By harnessing their extensive industry knowledge and shared passion for innovation, the Kintela team aims to empower travel-sector brands to tell their stories more effectively.
Through its innovative approach, Kintela seeks to foster deeper stakeholder relationships and help clients stand out in an increasingly crowded and fast-changing marketplace. As the global business travel industry continues to rebound and evolve, Kintela’s commitment to reshaping corporate events and communications through strategic storytelling and immersive experiences heralds a new era of integrated brand engagement.
In conclusion, the unveiling of Kintela marks a significant milestone in the evolution of corporate communications within the travel industry. By offering a fresh and specialized approach to event design and communication strategies, Kintela is poised to make a profound impact on how businesses engage with their stakeholders, ensuring that they remain relevant and competitive in the dynamic landscape of business travel.
