Gilbert E. Ahye, an independent director since 2013, became Vice Chairman of American Express Global Business Travel, a joint venture with American Express and a group of private investors, in September 2014. At that time he also became a partner of the private equity firm of Certares. While at American Express he had a longstanding career as a senior executive in finance, business development, investment, and mergers and acquisitions, and was at American Express for more than 30 years. Mr. Ahye served as the Executive Vice President—Chief Development Officer at American Express from May 2003 through August 2014 where he lead the Corporate Development / M&A and Innovation group and was a member of American Express’s Global Management Team. During his time at American Express, Mr. Ahye also served as Chief Financial Officer of the U.S. Consumer Card Business from 1996 to 1999 and Treasurer of International and Domestic Treasury from 1985 to 1988. Prior to joining American Express, Mr. Ahye was head of Capital Budgeting for International Paper Company from 1978 to 1981. From 1977 to 1978, Mr. Ahye served as a Manager at Union Carbide Corporation. From 1971 to 1977, Mr. Ahye served as Senior Auditor at Ernst & Young. Mr. Ahye is a member of both the American and New York State Societies of CPAs and serves on the board of directors of the Henry Street Settlement. Mr. Ahye also serves as an advisor to a payments company in China. Mr. Ahye was named to Black Enterprise Magazine’s 75 Most Powerful Blacks on Wall Street in 2006. Mr. Ahye received a Bachelor of Science degree from Manhattan College, a Master of Business Administration degree from St. John’s University and has a Certified Public Accountant accreditation. We believe that Mr. Ahye’s extensive practical experience with executing successful investment strategies and his long-term focus on business development qualifies him to serve on our board of directors.