Passion in action:
From vision to execution
Interested in being a part of our journey?
Interested in being a part of our journey?
Platinum Travel Group began in 2009 as a family-founded business with a strong vision: to modernise – and personalise – a truly emotive industry.
Under the expert guidance of their father and industry veteran, Carl Buerckner, our second-generation leaders worked to change the game – forever.
Now, over a decade in, we’re continuing to elevate our already high bar for quality service, giving you strong relationships. Frictionless touchpoints. And genuine care.
Because when it comes to corporate travel and events, even the smallest of details matter.
Our beginning
Our leaders – Carl, Andy and Sarah – saw Platinum as an opportunity to do and give more.
So they set about offering our no-compromise model to the SME corporate travel industry, combining the best in travel technology with true care and a personalised service.
Our present
Today – with an expanded footprint across three time zones, the best in market technology and our brilliant team – we’ve cemented our place as leaders in the SME corporate travel sector.
But most importantly, our values haven’t changed. We remain laser-focused on leading with care and empathy – always.
Our future
We’re set to continue our national expansion and solidify our position as leaders in the premium SME corporate travel space.
As the digital revolution continues, we’ll continue to invest heavily in market-leading technology, to ensure our customers are customers for life. Because true partnerships should last a lifetime.
Our directors
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Andy Buerckner
CEO
As the CEO of Platinum, Andy works to balance his life-long knowledge of travel management, with his clear vision for a more agile and accountable industry.
Andy believes in building and retaining strong relationships with suppliers, clients – and his own team. A focus that’s led him to securing extensive global travel and technology alliances – and driving several successful mergers and acquisitions.
Known for his forward-thinking and approachable nature, Andy brings enthusiasm and unwavering integrity to every interaction. Values that are non-negotiable. For him – and in those he collaborates with.
Beyond work, he’s a doting family man – unless he gets distracted researching every aspect of classic Porsches. Or creating unwelcome divots on a perfectly manicured golf course.
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Sarah Szubanski
Managing Director
Sarah is at the epicentre of Platinum’s operations. Her multifaceted role covers strategic financial management, technology development and HR. Plus, she oversees our supplier partnerships.
With expertise that spans data analysis, system management, contract negotiation, mergers, acquisitions and technology, Sarah’s success is rooted in her attention to detail and analytical prowess. All balanced with her nurturing and patient approach.
But Sarah’s true passion lies in efficiency. And creating a seamless experience for everyone involved in the business – from start to finish. Formerly a nurse and midwife, her care now extends to her wonderful team.
Beyond Platinum, she indulges in crochet through her side-hustle, Lana Mae Handmade. She’s also a devoted dog lover. And as a self-confessed introvert, she is complemented in life – and work – by her extroverted brother and business partner, Andy.
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Carl Buerckner
Executive Chairman
Carl’s journey in travel started at National Bank Travel in 1976, where he quickly rose to leadership.
In 1993, he founded BTI Australia and quickly became an industry leader.
Three years later, Hogg Robinson Australia acquired BTI. Carl became Managing Director and, once again, guided the business on a journey of impressive growth.
Carl’s entrepreneurial spirit led to the foundation of Platinum Travel Group in 2009 alongside his children, Andy and Sarah.
Today, with a solid team at the helm, Carl enjoys a more hands-off role as Executive Chairman – offering guidance and leveraging his vast industry experience and connections when called upon to support the team’s ambitious growth plans.
He now has plenty of time to enjoy life with his wife Cathy, whether it be supporting her equine social skills program for children with ASD, tending to his hobby farm or playing a round of golf.
Our leadership
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Lauren O’Dowd
National Operations Manager
Lauren is a driver. Ensuring Platinum stays ahead of the curve in our customer experience, and in our processes.
With 17 years in the travel industry across various roles – including corporate event management, leisure, account management and technology – she brings a holistic perspective to the inner workings of our organisation.
What does she value most about Platinum? The exceptional team, all dedicated to personal and company growth. Lauren thrives on cross-department collaboration and loves to devise innovative solutions for today – and tomorrow.
Beyond work, Lauren enjoys strategic board games. And one day she plans to make her own. Keep an eye out!
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Ryan Potts
Head of Strategy and Partnerships
Ryan joined Platinum in 2023. His mission? To solidify Platinum’s leadership in the travel management sector through strategic growth, enhancing its already solid reputation.
With 18+ years of experience in the travel industry, Ryan’s journey has seen him in roles from operations to sales to CEO.
His expertise lies in strategy, sales, account management and leadership. And he thrives on driving his team from strength to strength.
But listening is Ryan’s true superpower. He knows that success stems from hearing those impacted by decisions and translating diverse needs into cohesive strategies.
So why the travel industry? Well, the bug bit him early. At just 11 years of age, he took a solo journey to New Zealand. An experience, that ignited his passion for exploration – and clearly, he’s never looked back.
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Dayne Byrne
Head of Technology
The brains behind the tech, Dayne makes sure our clients integrate seamlessly into our systems – while also keeping our internal tech running smoothly.
Dayne’s expertise is extensive, with a deep understanding of travel technology, including GDS and OBEs.
Dayne is a top-tier problem solver who relishes in client puzzles – and delivering innovative solutions wrapped in exceptional service.
Dayne’s journey began as a Business Travel Consultant at Platinum in 2015, later transitioning full-time into a tech role.
Outside the office, Dayne is an avid football fan – especially when it comes to Manchester City. He’ll happily lose sleep to ensure he watches every game live.
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Victor Araya
National Business Manager
Victor serves as the vital link between us and our clients. He ensures their needs are met promptly – and transparently.
Victor’s expertise covers every facet of Platinum, from finance to technology to operations. Which means he can tackle any challenge comprehensively.
Known for his personable, genuine and straight-up approach, our clients – and our team – enjoy every interaction with him.
With a rich background in several travel management companies, as well as events and retail, Victor appreciates the intricate dynamics of this industry.
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Laura Lotter
National Business Manager
Laura brings a unique blend of skills in sales, account management, marketing and public relations to the table.
With over 15 years of experience in managing and developing strategic accounts within the corporate travel and tourism industry, Laura is dedicated to transforming client experiences through customised solutions and trusted partnerships.
Laura leverages her extensive industry knowledge and expertise to identify new opportunities, nurture relationships and deliver innovative solutions tailored to her client’s needs.
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Georgina Butterwood
National Business Manager
Georgina is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in sales, account management and supplier negotiation. She’s renowned within the Western Australian mining and resource sector for her exceptional client relationships and industry insight.
With a meticulous approach and unwavering commitment to meeting client’s needs, she has cultivated a robust supplier network, positioning herself as a trusted advisor in corporate travel.
And with a FIFO husband, she knows what being married the mining industry takes! But when they have time off, they enjoy camping with their two boys or escaping overseas.
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David Phillips
Corporate Team Leader
David navigates Platinum’s day-to-day operations, talent training and customer service. His diverse expertise spans corporate customer service, leadership, training and events management.
What fuels his passion? Witnessing his team’s remarkable growth. In both numbers and experience.
David’s journey in the travel industry began after a transformative gap year in Europe in 2005. Graduating from Jetset Training College in 2006, he quickly rose to lead a team of 17 consultants.
From there, he explored event management and incentive travel before joining Platinum Travel. His home now since 2016.
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Emma McLellan
Events Manager
Emma has a sharp eye for detail and impeccable time management – making her the obvious choice to orchestrate our conferences, from the flights through to the fun.
Emma excels in negotiating rates, understanding clients’ expectations and expertly managing the financials for each event.
But what truly sets Platinum apart for Emma? The colleagues who make every day a joy.
And with over a decade of experience in events, Emma was thrilled to marry her skills with her passion for travel – having lived in four countries throughout her life.
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Marcel Stawiczny
Finance Manager
Marcel is the financial backbone of our corporate travel operations. He excels in reporting, data analysis, problem-solving and self-learning. It’s no wonder he is an integral part of our team.
His career in finance began nearly a decade ago with an entry-level role at one of Platinum’s clients. After completing full-time accounting studies at university, he was thrilled to land at Platinum. And today, he thrives on the dynamic challenges of the travel sector.
Beyond numbers, Marcel is a skilled photographer – capturing meaningful moments every chance he gets.
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Michelle House
Marketing Manager
Michelle – new to the travel industry but seasoned in marketing – brings a diverse skill set to Platinum that spans strategy, business development, account management, content creation and copywriting.
Her entrepreneurial background in coaching and tenure in agency life, has refined her problem-solving acumen and positive outlook.
With a client-centric ethos, Michelle prioritises relationship-building and aims to cultivate an environment of trust and shared vision within the team. Her dedication to collaboration and client satisfaction aligns her perfectly with the Platinum ethos.
The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is the peak body for Australia’s travel businesses and represents the majority of retail and corporate travel agents, tour operators, wholesalers and consolidators.