Sam DeFranco is the President of Direct Travel’s Avenir. In his role, Sam oversees all business operations including account development and client relations. Sam joined Direct Travel in 2013, and brings more than 40 years of travel industry experience to his position.
A keen observer of the business travel industry, Sam possesses a unique skillset that has allowed him to flourish in both travel management as well as in supplier sales and automation. An accomplished travel management executive, he specializes in negotiations, balancing client and corporate needs, employee empowerment and increasing profitability.
Prior to joining Direct Travel, Sam held numerous key leadership roles, most recently serving as Senior Vice President, US National Clients for Carlson Wagonlit Travel, North America. Sam came to that position as co-owner of McGregor Travel Management, which was acquired by Navigant International, and later sold to Carlson. He was instrumental in the development of the Navigant brand and played a vital role in what became the nation’s first publicly-traded travel management company. Sam also held key positions at American Airlines, in the areas of automation, revenue enhancement and sales.
Sam has served as a member of the Stamford Zoning Board of Appeals and presently devotes time to numerous charitable organizations including the American Red Cross, March of Dimes, Leukemia Foundation, Stamford and Westchester County Food Banks and United Way. Among a variety of awards and distinctions, Sam is a respected recipient of Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year award.
Sam earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Business through the University of Tampa. He enjoys traveling throughout the US and Europe, playing golf and spending time with his three daughters.