Reed Travel Exhibition had appointed a new portfolio director for the World Travel Market brand.

Claude Blanc, who has over 25 years of experience within the travel trade and hospitality industry, takes on the overall responsibility for all events in the portfolio including World Travel Market London, Travel Forward, Arabian Travel Market, World Travel Market Latin America and World Travel Market Africa.

He joins from his role as chief executive at Paris-based Travel & Co, a tour operating group which he founded in 2007.

Prior to this, he was digital travel director for TUI group and has also held senior posts with travel management company Rosenbluth International and timeshare exchange company RCI.

Commenting on his new role, Blanc said: “I am delighted to join such a respected, well known global brand, and to work with a team of seasoned travel industry professionals.

“Having been a sponsor, an exhibitor and a visitor at many travel trade shows, I bring a client perspective, an international network and a digital culture.

“It’s an exciting time to come on board, as the WTM Portfolio is set to smash last year’s achievement of $7 billion worldwide industry deals.”

He will now report to Nick Pilbeam, divisional director, Reed Travel Exhibitions.

Commenting on the appointment, Pilbeam, said: “I am very pleased to welcome Claude onboard.

“He is equally comfortable working as a part of a team or leading from the front, he has in-depth knowledge of the industry and understands the geographical reach our portfolio covers.

“Claude will be a great asset as we drive the WTM events around the world to go from strength to strength.”