James Kavanagh

James Kavanagh is the Chief Executive Officer of Global Leisure at Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG), a position he has held since May 2022. With over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, Kavanagh has developed a robust career that spans various roles and responsibilities within FCTG and other travel management companies.

Career Overview

• Early Career: Kavanagh began his career in 1997 as a travel consultant at Corporate Travel Partners in Dublin, after completing an advanced diploma in Travel & Tourism. He later worked at Carlson Wagonlit Travel, focusing on operations and account management, and also served as a lecturer in Travel & Tourism at Stillorgan Senior College.12

• Flight Centre Travel Group: Kavanagh joined FCTG in 2004 and has since advanced through multiple leadership roles. He became the General Manager of FCTG’s corporate division in Queensland by 2009, then the National General Manager of FCM Travel Solutions in 2013. In 2018, he was appointed Executive General Manager of FCTG’s corporate brands, which include FCM Travel Solutions and Corporate Traveller.124

• Current Role: As CEO of Global Leisure, Kavanagh oversees the leisure travel segment of FCTG, focusing on strategic growth and enhancing customer experiences. His leadership has been marked by a commitment to operational excellence and team collaboration.34

Achievements

Kavanagh has received multiple awards for his contributions to the travel industry, including three Outstanding Achievement Awards for significant growth in sales and profit within his divisions. Under his leadership, FCTG's corporate business has become the largest travel management company in Australia.124

Leadership Philosophy

James Kavanagh is known for his collaborative leadership style. He emphasizes the importance of teamwork and believes that success is derived from empowering others within the organization. His approach focuses on creating efficient processes that enhance customer experiences rather than merely selling travel products.45

In summary, James Kavanagh is a seasoned executive with a strong track record in the travel industry, recognized for his strategic vision and ability to drive growth while fostering a supportive team environment.