Much-admired industry leader Walter Seib was a hugely deserving winner of the Outstanding Career Contribution Award at FAB 2024. He was recognised on the evening – he could not attend for personal reasons – for his immense influence in the sector over the past two decades.

Reflecting on Seib’s career and contribution, The Moodie Davitt Report Founder & Chairman Martin Moodie said: “He is determined, intelligent, capable and compassionate in equal measure. His voice is respected all around the airport world and within our sector in particular.

“He is renowned for paying attention to and caring for the people around him, no matter their level in the company. He is fondly known for remembering people by name – even chefs or waiting staff that he has met, and warmly greets them, asking them about whatever they talked about last time – for example, asking someone how their house move went, or inquiring after their sick family member.

“His way of doing business is through relationships and this goes for his team of direct reports as well as the company’s business partners.

“He is all about people, being around people, working with people, putting people first.

“His determination has steered the company through all sorts of challenges – from the volcanic clouds of Iceland through to COVID. He is optimistic, relentless in drive and determination, and the way he works with and through people means that he brings a solid and aligned team along with him.”

*Click on the video for Walter’s reaction to the award – played to the audience on awards night – and his own reflections on a career in travel food & beverage.