About Abel Zhao

Abel Zhao is a visionary leader transforming the travel, sports marketing and hospitality landscape. As Group CEO & Executive Director of CSTS Enterprises, he successfully acquired Connexus Travel (formerly Swire Travel) in 2023, integrating its 77-year legacy with CSTS's innovative marketing and technology platforms to create a comprehensive ecosystem for corporate travel and premium sports experiences. Under his leadership, Connexus Travel earned prestigious accolades including the Hong Kong ICT Award for Smart Tourism and Mobility (2023) and Travel Management Company of the Year – Hong Kong (World Travel Awards 2024), serving over 1,200 Fortune 500 companies and setting new industry benchmarks. bel also founded The ELYA Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to supporting working adults facing life pressures through wellness programs centered on sports, travel, pets, and family life—reflecting his commitment to community well-being. With prior executive roles at global leaders Travelport, Amadeus, Air Canada, and Hyatt, Abel brings deep expertise in travel technology and international hospitality. His innovative approach has earned recognition from the Financial Times as a High Growth Company in APAC, alongside multiple travel innovation awards. Strategic milestones include Connexus Travel's historic appointment as Hong Kong's first official sales agent for FIFA World Cup 26™ in Greater China, and CSTS's expanded sports marketing initiatives. In 2025, Abel was appointed as Overseas Executive Managing Director and Executive Director of AHOCA Asia, the Asia branch of the American Hotel Owners Charitable Association (AHOCA). Abel holds a degree from University of Geneva and an MBA in Business Management from Columbia University.