Leslie West

Leslie West has extensive experience in the travel industry, having worked for BCD Travel in various roles since 1986. In their most recent position as Senior Vice President, they played a key role in driving growth through technology innovation and strategically managing operations. Leslie also led organizational transformation and restructuring efforts, as well as facilitated market leadership by building customer-focused products and forming teams focused on client service. Prior to this, Leslie served as Senior Director in corporate travel management, where they successfully countered losses in a Fortune 100 corporate travel account program and implemented enterprise-scale changes. Before joining BCD Travel, Leslie owned and operated Mississippi Vacations / Tunica Shuttle and Trolley Company, where they launched and expanded a transportation and destination management business. However, due to the industry slowdown post 9/11, operations ceased in 2004. Throughout their career, Leslie has demonstrated strong leadership and operational skills, with experience in managing employees, safety, contract negotiation, service development, pricing, sales, marketing, payroll, fleet maintenance, and DOT compliance.

Leslie West studied for a Bachelor of Agricultural Science Degree from 1981 to 1983 at Texas A&M University-Kingsville with a focus on Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations. They also completed the Travel Agent Certification Program at SST Travel School, specializing in Travel Agent and Airline Reservation System Certification. In 2005, Leslie obtained a USCG Master Captain License and became a USCG Master Captain. Additionally, they received additional certifications, including a USCG Master Captain - 100 Ton Near Coastal Sail, Tow Endorsement from the United States Coast Guard in 2005 and a Six Sigma Green Belt from Motorola University in 2004.