In this new era, digital adaptation is not an option anymore, but rather an indispensable and strategic tool for destinations to remain competitive and to respond to the ever-evolving consumer needs and demands. In the tourism sector, digital strategies are increasingly based on online presence, differentiation and reputation in order to be competitive. This session will identify ways of how a destination could adapt to the digital transformation of the sector in order to remain competitive. Speaker: Mr Julian Mountain, Commercial Director of the Travel People, Lastminute.com Group Julian is a globally minded, analytical expert with digital communication experience across a range of countries. Before following his passion and moving into the travel industry he was head of Digital for Saatchi & Saatchi, part of the Publicis groupe. When not assisting tourism boards navigate digital technology and channels, he can be found trail running or surfing and waiting excitedly for his twins to be born.

Panelists:
1.Mr Philip Taylor, CEO, Hospitality Plus Mr Taylor has enjoyed an enriching career across numerous countries and industries. This wide exposure in the hospitality, property, logistics, shipping and financial services has prompted him to develop his very own ventures and partnerships with handpicked partners. Today, he lives in Mauritius and operates his own companies in diverse industries, whilst remaining an independent director for several listed companies in the hospitality industry as well as other sectors.
2. Professor Manohar Sajnani, Director Amity Institute of Travel and Tourism, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, India Professor Sajnani is a celebrated professional with more than 30 years of teaching and industry experience and is a Destination Marketing and Tourism Management expert with specialisation in Information Communication Technologies in Tourism and Hospitality industry. His research area is inter- disciplinary cutting across a number of disciplines including People Management & Tourism Business Laws, creating value for both travel organisations and end users.
3. Dr Arjoon Suddhoo, FRAeS – Chairman, Air Mauritius Ltd Dr Arjoon Suddhoo, FRAeS, is the Chairman of Air Mauritius Ltd and Executive Director of Mauritius Research Council. He was one of the laureates of the 1978 cohort. Dr Suddhoo is holder of a Bsc in Aeronautical Engineering with First Class Honours at the University of Manchester and a PhD in Aeronautics at the same University. He is also holder of an MBA with Distinction from the University of Liverpool.
Moderator: Mr Fabien Lefébure, Chief Executive Officer, Solis Indian Ocean Ltd Mr Lefébure holds a Post Graduate Degree (DESS) from the University of Paris I Panthéon-Sorbonne. He has spent the last 14 years in different positions within the Hospitality & Tourism industry and is presently the CEO of Solis Group. Mr Lefébure is also serving his third mandate as President of the Association of Inbound Operators Mauritius (AIOM).

Comments are turned off. Learn more