Focus Travel Partnership recruits Schumacher as chair

Former United Airlines regional sales director Bob Schumacher is to become non-executive chair of the Focus Travel Partnership.

He assumes the role on January 1 from Adrian Parkes who is retiring at the end of December after three years in the position at the consortium of SME business travel companies.

James Parkhouse, former chief executive of travel management company Agiito has also been appointed as a non-executive director of the board.

Schumacher, who has almost 30 years’ experience in senior sales and management positions in the aviation sector, said: “I have always held Focus in the highest regard and am delighted to be joining as chair at this exciting time for the partnership. 

“The growing number of Focus TMC partners, along with the consortium’s strong and deep supplier relationships, only serves to endorse how Focus manages the interests of its membership for the common good. 

“I am looking forward to the next chapter working with the board to further success in 2024.”

Parkhouse, who spent 15 years leading Agiito, said: “The Focus Travel Partnership is a fabulous example of a not-for-profit membership organisation where its purpose it to help its 50-plus members to gain access to industry knowledge, expertise and commercial opportunities that may not exist for any member individually.” 

Focus chief executive Abby Penston added: “Focus is delighted to welcome Bob and James to the board in the roles of chair and non-executive director respectively. 

“They both bring extensive and enviable experience to Focus, gained during impressive careers in the industry, which will be invaluable as the partnership moves into the next phase of its evolution in 2024. 

“Our sincere gratitude goes to Adrian for his unwavering commitment, vision and guidance over the last three years. Through his insight and leadership we have learned the true meaning of collaboration and resilience. All of us at Focus wish him the very best for his retirement.”