TAMS, according to its website, is a nonprofit initiative committed to uniting professionals from across the entire travel and meetings framework.
The Travel and Meeting Society (TAMS) announced the appointment of Joel Hanson as executive director. According to the announcement, he brings to the organization “a unique blend of global travel industry expertise, startup advisory experience and nonprofit governance.” Hanson, said the announcement, will lead the organization’s strategic initiatives in addition to operations, partnerships and member engagement.
Hanson, said the announcement, “joins TAMS with extensive experience at the intersection of travel, technology and innovation.” He previously led global innovation business development for CWT, where he worked with emerging technologies and new business models shaping the future of travel, according to the announcement. He has also advised travel technology startups globally through Plug and Play Tech Center in Silicon Valley and through his independent consulting work. In addition, said the announcement, Hanson brings more than 12 years of nonprofit leadership experience, including service as board chair of a Twin Cities arts-focused nonprofit organization.
Kerin McKinnon, board chair of TAMS, said Hanson’s background “is uniquely aligned with the direction that TAMS is taking.” McKinnon continued: “He has built his career by connecting people, ideas and innovations to drive meaningful improvements across the travel ecosystem. His experience leading global business development initiatives, supporting emerging travel technologies and serving mission-driven organizations gives him the vision and leadership needed to help TAMS continue advancing collaboration for industry transformation.”
Hanson said he was “enormously drawn to the Travel and Meeting Society for several reasons.” First and foremost, he said, “are the people, whom I have found to be caring, insightful and forward-looking.” He continued: “I was also inspired by its values and a steady focus on inclusion. Finally, I believe the Travel and Meeting Society is like a small mirror reflecting what the broader travel industry, and indeed the world, can be — better together.”
As executive director, said the announcement, Hanson will focus on strengthening member value, expanding strategic partnerships and advancing educational programming, which support the volunteer-driven initiatives that have become hallmarks of the organization.
