Thomas Cook appoints new tour operating chief

Wednesday, 28 Feb, 2019 0

Will Waggott, a former CEO of TUI’s non-mainstream business, is to join Thomas Cook as chief of tour operating on March 11.

Waggott’s most recent role was as CEO of Travelopia, a specialist travel group sold off by TUI in February 2017.

He has been on gardening leave since April 2018. On the business social media site LinkedIn he states simply he is ‘looking for new roles’.

Thomas Cook said his appointment ‘recognises the need to accelerate the execution of Thomas Cook’s strategy of differentiation: investing in strengthening the own-brand hotel portfolio; further digitising sales channels; and driving greater efficiencies across the business’.

Waggott has worked in the industry for more than 20 years, having held several roles at TU including commercial director and chief financial officer. He previously worked for Airtours.

In his new roles, he will have oversight of the UK, Continental Europe and Northern Europe businesses.

His immediate focus will be to address the performance in the UK tour operator where the challenges of transformation in a competitive environment remain significant, the company said in a statement.

Group CEO Peter Fankhauser added: "Will Waggott brings substantial experience in operating and transforming leisure travel businesses. This expanded role will deliver a more streamlined and consistent approach across our tour operating business, while at the same time giving renewed focus to the UK market."

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Linsey McNeill

Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk

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