Paris, France — June 23, 2025 — Areka, a leading global consultancy specializing in business travel and expense optimization, is pleased to announce the appointment of Catalin Ciobanu as Vice President, Data & AI. In this new role, Ciobanu will spearhead the evolution of Areka’s innovation roadmap, with a focus on leveraging emerging technologies to deliver smarter, more strategic solutions for clients.
Based in Paris, Ciobanu will report directly to Pascal Jungfer, Chief Executive and Founding Partner of Areka.
“Data and AI are transforming how travel programs are managed—shifting from hindsight reporting to foresight-driven decision making,” said Ciobanu. “As business travel becomes more integrated with broader workforce and sustainability strategies, clients are looking for solutions that can mine insights across multiple data sources, quantify the travel program in its entirety, and empower leaders to steer with confidence. I am excited to join Areka and help shape its future alongside an exceptional global team.”
Ciobanu brings extensive experience at the intersection of technology, analytics, and travel. He was the Co-founder and CTO of Boost.rs, a startup pioneering the science of skills in the labor market, with applications in Talent Management, Internal Mobility, Learning & Development, and Recruitment. Prior to that, he led Data & Analytics for CWT Solutions Group, managing teams of data scientists, analysts, and BI professionals. His early career began in experimental particle physics, where his PhD research focused on using AI to detect meaningful signals in massive datasets.
“We are delighted to welcome Catalin to Areka,” said Jungfer. “Innovation and technology have always been pillars of our growth, with a dedicated team of in-house data scientists and proprietary tools that power leaner sourcing, strong data governance, and AI-driven insights. Many clients already come to us for the strength of these tools—and with Catalin’s deep technical acumen and strategic mindset, we are well-positioned to accelerate the next wave of services that unlock even more value from data.”
Areka’s consulting practice spans program strategy, sourcing, traveler wellbeing, payments, sustainability, meetings and events, outsourcing, and data and analytics. With this new appointment, the firm continues to invest in advanced capabilities that help clients harness the power of data, sharpen decision-making, and future-proof their travel programs in a rapidly evolving landscape.
About Areka
Areka is an independent, global consultancy dedicated to optimizing travel and expense programs. With expertise across sourcing, strategy, digital tools, and program transformation, Areka partners with clients to drive long-term value, improve traveler experience, and achieve strategic business outcomes.
Press Contact:
Jenny Larson
jlarson@areka-consulting.com
