Connections, a division of London-headquartered Travel Weekly Group, has appointed Gamal Sadek as the new regional director to develop its presence in the Middle East.

Sadek, who is also the general manager of Dubai-based Al Ketbi Consultancy since 2008, will focus on deepening the Connections’ footprint and its brand awareness in both the luxury travel and Mice sectors in the Gulf.

Micaela Giacobbe, Connections’ founder & director of commercial events, said: “Gamal’s appointment as regional director is an important step in the evolution of our business. The Middle East is without question one of the most important regions for luxury and Mice travel. The decision to grow the team therefore demonstrates our belief in the region’s potential and our commitment to bringing together its most senior buyers and sellers.”

Prior to joining Al Ketbi Consultancy in 2008, Sadek had held a number of key sales and marketing positions in the travel industry including tenures at Sheraton, Ritz Carlton and Taj Group.

He is fluent in French, English and Arabic, with university qualifications from France, Switzerland and the UK. Sadek is also well-versed in destination marketing, business strategy, technology application, e-business and market research techniques. – TradeArabia News Service