Thanks to all, great points all around with excellent discussion.
Had an informal chat with my nearest superior (CIO). Turns out he just earned SL, so lounge access is not an issue for him. The two other higher executives are traveling J, so no need for me to *attempt* to provide lounge access.
He asked me when I was traveling, I told him on the same day. I also told him no need for us to travel to the airport together. I'll find my way without the company service as I have before, so as not to impede the group. Their flight is 1:30 minutes earlier.
I'll probably go the the Pier J, even if my flight leaves from gate 15 where it usually does. My boss (CIO) doesn't seem to know about the Pier, seems to be currently fixated on Wing J as are the rest of my colleagues.
Originally Posted by
1010101
I think it largely comes down to the culture you are operating within. In some places a loss of face is serious business and its not worth the risk - travelling in a higher class would be an insult. In others, noone would care. It's on the OP to figure out which one his boss would be.
Reading culture is important, especially in business. As an American working for a Chinese company in Shenzhen for the last 2 years, I still am not confident on the appropriate customs. My boss (CIO) is a Chinese-American who lived and worked in America for a long time. So the relationship with him is a little more comfortable, we work closer together and socialize a little outside of the office. I would not feel comfortable with any of the other senior executives knowing my travel pattern or status especially since they are funding it all.
So I will let them enjoy their flight and time in the lounge together, while I use alternate means
