Traveloka’s CEO, Ferry Unardi, Joins Endeavor Indonesia’s Board, Bringing Key Strategies for Startups to Face Crisis Challenges
Amidst the challenges faced by startups in recent years, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the threat of a tech winter, many startups have managed to grow and successfully weather the storms. Even in one of the most vulnerable sectors such as travel and ticket booking, Traveloka, under the leadership of CEO and Co-Founder Ferry Unardi, evolved and has become stronger through a series of innovations that provide an engaging experience for its users.
Continuing his success in ensuring Traveloka’s resilience through the turbulent times faced by the tech, travel, and tourism industries over the pandemic years, Endeavor Indonesia, a leading global community of, by, and for High-Impact entrepreneurs, proudly appoints Ferry Unardi as the newest board member. Ferry Unardi becomes the 12th board member after Endeavor appointed Jefrey Joe, a Venture Capitalist (VC) from Alpha JWC Ventures, last July. The presence of these two experienced entrepreneurs on the board is expected to have a significant impact, drawing from their experiences in navigating the ups and downs of the startup ecosystem in the country.
Arif P. Rachmat, Co-Founder & Executive Chairman of TAP Group and Chairman of Endeavor Indonesia, explained, “Ferry Unardi’s arrival as a board member of Endeavor Indonesia is a strategic move for our ecosystem. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Traveloka, Ferry brings not only abundant entrepreneurial experience but also a broad understanding of the challenging journey faced by startups. His determination in guiding Traveloka through the challenges posed by difficult macroeconomic operating environments, especially in the travel and ticket booking industry, is truly exceptional.”
“With Ferry and Jefrey Joe now on the board, we believe that the Endeavor network will benefit from their insights and experiences, making us more effective in supporting High-Impact Entrepreneurs. We look forward to collaborating with Ferry to create a stronger ecosystem and greater support for startups in Indonesia,” Arif added.
As a board member of Endeavor Indonesia, Ferry will accompany other startups on their journey towards achieving more solid growth, ultimately producing more High-Impact Entrepreneurs. As the first board member from the travel and ticket booking industry, Ferry will provide perspectives and ideas on how to run a more sustainable business in the current landscape of technological advancements and various consumer needs.
Ferry Unardi stated, “During crises, it is crucial for startups to continue adapting and innovating through various alternative solutions that can provide a better user experience while increasing operational efficiency. Therefore, at Traveloka, we keep introducing cutting-edge technology to cater to all consumer needs, regardless of the challenges we face. Endeavor’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurship and supporting startups in their growth aligns perfectly with the core values that have driven Traveloka’s success to date. I am excited to contribute my experience and knowledge to help Endeavor Indonesia’s network thrive. Together, we can create a stronger and more resilient ecosystem for High-Impact Entrepreneurs.”
In his journey to build Traveloka since 2012, Ferry, a Harvard Business School MBA graduate, achieved unicorn status within 5 years. Over time, Traveloka has continued to advance and expand its services to include train and bus ticket booking, car rentals, and various travel activities. In 2015, the company began expanding into Southeast Asian markets, including Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines. As of 2022, Traveloka remains the largest online travel platform in Southeast Asia.
Ferry Unardi’s experience and expertise in building and developing startups make him a valuable asset for Endeavor Indonesia.
Recently, Endeavor held the Endeavor Scale Up Batch 5, a non-dilutive accelerator program that provides an exclusive opportunity for selected startups to connect with resources, founders, and industry leaders within the local and global Endeavor network. This initiative further embraces the growth of the most promising and fastest-growing entrepreneurs and startups, ultimately contributing to the development of a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in the market.