Sabre Travel Network has appointed Luc Dethaey to the newly created position of managing director for Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.

Dethaey, who has spent the last two years working for Sabre as a consultant, brings more than 25 years experience of the travel technology industry in Western Europe to the role.

Stephane Aita, Sabre Travel Network’s vice president for Western Europe, said: “Luc’s appointment to the role of managing director for Benelux is another important milestone in our growth strategy in the region.

“He has a profound knowledge of the travel technology business in Western Europe, and his reputation, network and expertise will be crucial in making sure travel agencies are introduced to the expanding Sabre community in Benelux.”

After graduating with a degree in business economics and accounting in Belgium, Dethaey took a position at German production and distribution firm Schiesser.

In 1986 he joined IBM where his job focused entirely on the travel industry.

Dethaey said: “Sabre has set itself some very ambitious targets across Europe, the Middle East Africa.

“In the last few years the company has unveiled a number of innovative products that sets it apart from the competition. 

“So, while Benelux is a hugely competitive marketplace, there are many exciting opportunities ahead.”

In 1990 Dethaey founded a company called ICSAT, specialising in mid- and back-office applications, which he sold in late 2002.

Since 2004 Dethaey was a travel technology consultant for a number of large businesses including Sabre, Galileo and Billian IT Solutions.

Dethaey will be based in Sabre offices in Brussels and Amsterdam, and will report directly to Stephane Aita.