Bart Sobies | Chief Executive Officer
ibooked.online

Bart Sobies is a trailblazer in the Short-Term Rental and accommodation industries, celebrated for his innovative contributions as the founder of iBooked.Online, host of The Accommodation Show, and the STRIVE Conference series creator. With a career spanning over three decades in tech, Bart has pioneered how hospitality businesses leverage technology, marketing, and direct bookings to achieve success. Since founding iBooked.Online in 2019, Bart guided the company to become a leader in custom website solutions and branding for the accommodation sector, helping clients generate millions in additional revenue. His commitment to empowering businesses was recognised with a finalist position in the Shortyz Awards and an Australian government grant to further enhance his company's impact. Bart's influence extends to the global stage through his STRIVE to Thrive conferences, first launched in 2023. These events, held in Melbourne, Auckland, and other key destinations, have quickly become premier platforms for knowledge-sharing, networking, and growth in the STR industry. A prolific speaker, Bart has headlined numerous high-profile events, including the NoVacancy Expo in Sydney, the Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA) International Conference in Phoenix, the ASTRA Here to Stay Conference, and CanStays in Banff. His presentations have explored cutting-edge topics like leveraging AI for tourism, optimising direct booking strategies, and creating impactful digital marketing campaigns. In addition to his live appearances, Bart is a sought-after podcast guest, featured on Get Paid for Your Pad, Vacation Rental Success, and Direct Booking Success. He has shared insights on AI, direct booking optimisation, and low-cost marketing strategies, providing actionable advice to audiences worldwide. In 2025, Bart was featured on Channel 9 National News, cementing his role as a trusted voice and thought leader in the tourism industry. His expertise and passion for innovation continue to inspire hospitality professionals to adopt transformative strategies that drive success. As a dedicated community builder, Bart founded the Accommodation Professionals Facebook Group, a vibrant global network of over 2,400 members. This collaborative platform has become a cornerstone for sharing knowledge, fostering professional connections, and driving industry progress. As the host of The Accommodation Show, Bart has delivered over 100 episodes of industry-leading content, drawing from his rich network of experts and his own deep experience. His ability to connect people, ideas, and opportunities underscores his commitment to supporting the growth and success of the STR community. Bart Sobies' career is a testament to his dedication to elevating the STR and tourism sectors. His innovative mindset, paired with an unwavering commitment to his clients and community, ensures that he remains at the forefront of industry advancement.