Conversation with Megan Oberholzer of World Travel Market-Africa

In this episode, (#15) the Director of Travel, Tourism and Creative Industries at Reed Exhibitions, Organizers of World Travel Market-Africa Megan Oberholzer, narrates the extremely challenging situations having to deal with suppliers following the cancellation of this year’s World Travel Market Africa as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. She also outlines incentives for the travel trade and specifically Tourism SMEs in next year’s edition.

Her role includes taking full accountability for the planning and operational management of all aspects of the portfolio, contributing significantly to the development and implementation of Reed’s strategy and to deliver exceptional performance through effective collaboration, management and development of others.

As part of Megan’s role, she builds closer relationships with the key players within the industry and gaining a broader insight into the fundamental issues affecting each show’s industries.

After almost 8 years working in Marketing with Tourvest, Megan joined Reed Exhibitions in 2015 as the Marketing Manager for WTM Africa and IBTM Africa where she oversaw and drove world-class branding and communications for two successful travel trade exhibitions. In 2017, Megan then assumed the role of General Marketing Manager adding the brand ILTM Africa to her portfolio. In this role, she passionately promoted the WTM Africa, ILTM Africa and IBTM Africa brands and oversaw all the events’ relative marketing aspects.

In May 2018, Megan was promoted to Portfolio General Manager for Reed Exhibitions South Africa’s Travel, Tourism and Sport department in which includes various dynamic trade and consumer shows namely; WTM Africa, ILTM Africa, IBTM Africa and FIBO Global Fitness Africa. Following a year as GM, Megan was made Portfolio Director in May 2019.Megan and her team passionately use the exhibition and eventing platforms to create opportunities for Travel & Tourism industry brands to market their products and services to a captive audience through face to face interaction using all of the 5 senses.