In this interview, Elizabeth Frels, Director of Product Management & Development at Ker & Downey World Travel, shares how product decisions are made within one of the United States’ leading luxury travel companies.
Founded with Africa at its core, Africa still represents approximately 50% of Ker & Downey’s business, and remains central to the company’s DNA. Today, Elizabeth oversees global product strategy across Africa, Europe, the Americas and polar regions, working closely with destination management companies (DMCs), tourism boards and properties worldwide.
In this conversation, she explains:
- How she moved into product management in luxury travel
- Who makes final decisions on adding or removing suppliers
- What suppliers should understand before reaching out
- Why long-term DMC relationships are critical
- How Ker & Downey approaches trade shows strategically
- How much time product buyers actually spend travelling
- Which destinations are currently performing strongly
- Why off-the-beaten-path destinations are gaining momentum
Elizabeth provides clear, practical guidance for properties, DMCs and tourism boards that want to work effectively with established luxury travel companies.
If you are a supplier looking to understand how buyers evaluate new partnerships, and how to stand out in a relationship-driven industry, this interview offers valuable, real-world insight.