As Samantha McKnight prepares to step down from the ITM Board after six years of dedicated service, we sat down to reflect on her journey, proudest moments, and the lessons she'll carry forward.

Looking back on your time as an ITM Board Director, what accomplishments are you most proud of?

My time on the Board has been an interesting one, with opportunities to work alongside a range of really talented people from across the industry. As a Board Director, none of the accomplishments are solely mine, but looking back, the 2020 ITM Spring Conference stands out.

We all remember what happened in the spring of 2020, and I vividly recall being part of conversations months earlier about whether to pivot to a virtual conference. Being part of such a breakthrough event — and seeing the community and togetherness it created — is something that will stay with me for a long time. We didn’t know at the time that virtual events would become a way of life, but delivering such an impactful “first” is something I’ll always remember.
 

What has been the most rewarding aspect of serving on the ITM Board?

I’ve had the privilege of serving with three amazing Chairs of the Board, who also happen to be fearless female leaders within the business travel industry. Thank you to Karen Hutchings, Alison Rogan and Nikki Parsons for all bringing their unique style to the role of Chair. Each of them, in their own way, taught me something that I will take forward.
 

How has being on the ITM Board shaped your approach to leadership within the business travel industry?

As a Supplier Director, part of the responsibility is to be the representative voice of the supplier members. To do this, you need to know and understand the various aspects of what makes our industry tick from a supplier perspective.

I brought my own breadth of experience from a range of sectors to the role, but working with those in TMCs, airlines, hotels, technology, payments and many other sectors opened my eyes to their needs, opportunities and challenges. Having a broader and more rounded understanding of the many facets that make up the business travel industry can only be a benefit.
 

What is one key lesson or insight from your Board experience that you will carry forward in your career?

Communication and collaboration are at the root of our industry — and therefore, our association. Whether we’re looking at a major industry change and its impact on buyers and their programmes, discussing association strategy, or negotiating a deal, clear communication and finding a mutually beneficial way forward is vital for all of us.
 

Looking back, what has been your favourite moment as an ITM Board Director, and why does it stand out to you?

This is a really difficult question, as I’m not sure how to pick just one moment. As I reflect on my six years on the Board (not a retirement — just really good governance!), I think of the variety of venues for Spring Conference, the launch of the mentoring programme, the Autumn Conference, and the Achievement Awards. I’m proud to see all that the association has delivered on behalf of its members.

As the Board Director responsible for ITM Cares over that period, I’ve been honoured to hear amazing stories and to watch our industry pull together, dig deep, and support the causes that matter most to them. With many a “lump in the throat” moment, those evenings at the Spring Conference Gala Dinner will always remain with me.

See you at the next ITM event — with a delegate badge on this time.