The GBTA Board of Directors issued the following statement late last night to the GBTA staff and all GBTA members. All questions should be directed to David Leibowitz.
To our Staff, Members, and Industry Colleagues:
The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) and its Board of Directors stand fully committed to providing a workplace environment free from unlawful harassment and discrimination. As representatives of the travel industry, we understand that GBTA as an association must exemplify professionalism, fairness and integrity.
On June 8th, 2020, the GBTA Board of Directors was made aware of allegations inconsistent with our commitment to professionalism and a respectful work environment. Without hesitation, the Board launched an internal review and subsequently hired an independent, third-party attorney to undertake a formal investigation of all allegations – those in the complaint, subsequent public notices, and further communications to the Board.
We want to thank everyone who has voluntarily taken part in this process and reassure you that we will do everything we can to protect your confidentiality, as outlined in the GBTA policies governing such matters.
Today, the Board received the preliminary results of this review.
We have determined that further investigation is required in this matter. We have taken this step to affirm that this inquiry has the necessary depth, that the reviewer has sufficient time to consider and corroborate facts and statements, and to give any and all concerned parties an opportunity to come forward.
In order to ensure a fully transparent and independent completion of this review, we are placing our CEO Scott Solombrino on administrative leave.
GBTA senior staff who previously reported to the CEO will now report directly to the Executive Committee of the Board.
We appreciate your continued patience in this matter, especially given the sensitivity of the subject and the importance of conducting a thorough investigation that adheres to due process. We must proceed based on facts and evidence alone.
.jpg){kind=tracking}