beam Finance Forum
beam’s Finance Forum returned at Leonardo Royal London Tower Bridge, bringing together finance professionals, agency leaders, hoteliers, payment specialists, and legal experts from across the business events, accommodation, and travel sectors for a day of insight, collaboration, and practical discussion.
Delivered in collaboration with the BTA, this year’s forum focused on the evolving financial landscape impacting the industry — from payment innovation and regulation through to legalities, VAT complexities, and the future of finance operations.
The day opened with a welcome session before delegates heard from experts at Grant Thornton, who explored finance development and the broader economic and operational pressures facing businesses today. Irena Scullion, Director of Indirect Tax, and Alex Mumford, Partner in CFO Solutions, shared valuable perspectives on financial resilience, regulatory considerations, and how organisations can prepare for continued change.
One of the standout sessions of the morning explored how Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL), virtual cards, and open banking are reshaping payment solutions across the sector. Industry specialists Daniel Graham from Conferma, Carolina Castillo from Wex, Jurgen Schouten from Katanox, and Igor Costa from Amadeus Outpayce discussed the rapid evolution of payment technology, the opportunities it presents for agencies and suppliers, and the importance of balancing innovation with security and operational efficiency.
The conversation continued with an expert panel session moderated by Andrew Clarke from the BTA. Joined by Amanda Riley from Conference Care, Jonathan Read from Leonardo Hotels, and the morning’s payment specialists, the panel debated the practical realities of implementing modern payment methods, the growing role of automation, and how businesses can improve payment processes while reducing risk.
Following networking over lunch, delegates heard from Matt Gatenby, Senior Partner at Travlaw, who delivered an insightful session focused on B2B legalities and charges. Matt examined the legal considerations currently impacting the industry, including liability, contractual changes, and the implications of ongoing regulatory developments.
The afternoon then turned to one of the industry’s most talked-about financial topics — TOMS and billback. Laura Chipp, Founder of VATNAV, shared her expertise on navigating the complexities of VAT, Tour Operators’ Margin Scheme (TOMS), and international tax legislation. Her session provided attendees with practical guidance on managing compliance and understanding the operational implications for agencies, TMCs, DMCs, and suppliers.
Throughout the day, workshops and networking discussions encouraged open conversation around shared challenges, allowing delegates to exchange experiences, ask questions, and explore collaborative solutions.
The beam/ The BTA Finance Forum once again highlighted the value of bringing finance professionals and operational leaders together to address the evolving issues affecting the meetings, events, accommodation, and travel sectors. From payment innovation and legal reform to tax complexities and future-focused finance strategies, the event provided attendees with practical takeaways, fresh perspectives, and valuable industry connections.
A huge thank you goes to all speakers, panellists, partners, and attendees who contributed to another insightful and engaging Finance Forum.
For more information on upcoming beam events, visit: https://beam-org.uk/events-centre/
