Jim Hartnett is Chief Supplier Officer at Direct Travel, where he leads the company’s global supplier strategy across airlines, hotels, and ground transportation. In this role, he oversees supplier partnerships and commercial strategy, helping strengthen alignment between supplier innovation, client value, and the future of managed travel.
Jim brings more than 25 years of leadership experience across the travel industry, with deep expertise in supplier management, strategic partnerships, revenue growth, and commercial development.
Prior to joining Direct Travel, Jim served as Vice President of Global Supplier Management at CWT, where he led global supplier strategy and partner relationships across multiple categories and markets. Earlier in his career, he held senior leadership positions at Etihad Airways and United Airlines, focused on worldwide alliances, strategic partnerships, and commercial growth initiatives.
Throughout his career, Jim has built a reputation as a strategic and collaborative leader with a strong understanding of how supplier relationships continue to evolve within the modern travel ecosystem. His experience spans both the airline and travel management sectors, giving him a unique perspective on creating long-term value for suppliers, clients, and travelers alike.
As Chief Supplier Officer, Jim is focused on advancing a more integrated and data-driven approach to supplier partnerships, helping connect evolving supplier capabilities with the needs of modern managed travel programs.