Carlos Charters, founder and chief executive of the Cititravel group of companies, has died unexpectedly but peacefully in his sleep at home at the age of 65.
Along with his wife Karen Jessen, Carlos started his business as an incoming destination management company (DMC) in 1985 after a successful period working in the hotel industry.
Cititravel has grown to be one of the largest and most successful privately‐owned agencies in the field of incoming meetings and incentive travel throughout Spain and Portugal.
Carlos was not only a successful businessman but an active advocate for the meetings and events industry in Spain, being a leading figure in lobbying for changes to government tax policy in order to take the special status of the events industry into account.
Golf dominated his many passions and interests and last year he achieved a dream of owning his very own course, Baviera Golf, which has now become one of the leading courses on the Costa del Sol east of Malaga.
Apart from his astute business acumen, he will be fondly remembered for his affable nature, generosity and ‘joie de vivre’ by all those who had the privilege to work for or with him.
He leaves behind a well‐structured, financially solid business that will continue to develop his vision for the future.
Retirement was never part of his plan and, in sporting terms, he departed very much still at the top of his game.
Karen and the Charters family, along with their long‐established team of experienced professionals, will continue to develop his vision and legacy during the forthcoming transition for the industry from a Covid‐hit world into a ‘new normal’.
M&IT editor Paul Harvey is a journalist with more than 15 years of experience. He began his career in the local press, working for various titles across the north. Since joining M&IT in 2013, he has become a trusted and respected voice in the sector, championing event professionals and reporting on all aspects of the events industry for the brand.
