As part of our Best of the Back Catalogue, we’re revisiting a fascinating conversation with Paul Smitton, now President, International and Partnerships at Ascenda and formerly CEO of Asia Miles ( now Cathay / the Cathay Membership Programme.)

A true loyalty industry veteran, Paul shares insights from his remarkable career, from his “baptism of fire” building Air New Zealand’s first loyalty programme in 1991 to leading one of Asia’s most recognised loyalty programmes, Asia Miles.

In this episode, Paul explores the importance of customer focus and innovation, sharing his thinking on blockchain, WhatsApp and the evolution of Asia Miles’ partnerships across dining and eCommerce.

It’s a great conversation filled with practical insights, memorable stories and a powerful reminder of what it means to have a true loyalty mindset.

The episode was released in 2020.

Show Notes:

1) Paul Smitton

2) Cathay / the Cathay Membership Programme

3)#65: Paul Smitton talks Asia Miles, Innovative Ideas in Airline Loyalty and Preparing for Travel's Inevitable Rebound