Johannesburg – Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) has announced the appointment of Herman Heunes as General Manager of Corporate Traveller South Africa, effective 1 April 2025. A seasoned leader with 15 years of experience in corporate travel, Heunes is set to steer Corporate Traveller into its next phase of growth, focusing on innovation, operational excellence, and customer-first business travel solutions tailored for SMEs.
As travel costs continue to rise, 63% of SMEs cite cost as their biggest pain point, according to a recent Corporate Traveller and GBTA report. Against this backdrop, Heunes’ leadership will be critical in helping SMEs navigate these challenges through technology-driven efficiencies and expert business travel management.
“Herman has been instrumental in shaping Corporate Traveller’s success in South Africa,” said Bonnie Smith, outgoing General Manager and newly appointed Corporate Traveller UK Head. “His deep understanding of SME needs, combined with his ability to drive innovation and build high-performing teams, makes him the ideal leader to take Corporate Traveller South Africa into its next chapter.”
Heunes joined Corporate Traveller in 2012, building an impressive track record across multiple leadership roles, from Team Leader to Operations Leader. His leadership has been instrumental in driving efficiencies, customer satisfaction, and strategic growth—all critical ingredients in a competitive SME travel market.
“As someone who has spent years fine-tuning operational efficiency and enhancing customer service delivery, I’m excited to build on this momentum,” said Heunes. “My experience has allowed me to understand what businesses need from their travel partner—seamless support, cost-effective solutions, and a proactive approach to evolving travel demands.”
With rapid advances in travel technology, automation, and data-driven decision-making, Heunes sees a clear opportunity to strengthen Corporate Traveller’s offering to SMEs in South Africa.
“One of the most important shifts in corporate travel right now is the acceleration of digital transformation,” said Heunes. “Technology is changing not just how businesses book travel, but also how they monitor costs, manage policies, and support their travellers on the road.”
However, Heunes firmly believes that technology should enhance human expertise—not replace it.
“Business travel is more than just transactions; it’s about people. While technology enables efficiency, the real differentiator is service,” Heunes said. “At Corporate Traveller, our focus is making sure our clients get both—the right tools for control and savings, alongside expert support when they need it most.”
Moving forward, Heunes is committed to helping SMEs optimise their travel programmes while ensuring increased personalisation, efficiency, and cost control.
“We know that SMEs need flexibility, simplicity, and travel solutions that genuinely support their business goals,” Heunes added. “Corporate Traveller is built for businesses that need a travel partner that understands their challenges and can adapt quickly to their needs.”
Heunes will assume his role officially on 1 April 2025, taking over from Bonnie Smith, who transitions to her new leadership position at Corporate Traveller UK.
“Stepping into my new role with Corporate Traveller UK is incredibly exciting,” said Smith. “I’m proud of everything we’ve achieved here over the years—but I know I’m leaving Corporate Traveller South Africa in capable hands with a leader who truly understand what it takes to drive success.”