Travel Counsellors unveils new roles in senior leadership shake-up

Travel Counsellors has unveiled an updated senior leadership team, with Jim Eastwood appointed to the newly created role of UK chief executive and Kirsten Hughes stepping up to group chief commercial officer.

Former global sales director Eastwood will provide dedicated market leadership to support the continued growth of the UK’s corporate and leisure businesses, while strengthening focus on franchise recruitment and the expansion of the Travel Counsellors community, according to the company.

Hughes, who held the joint role of UK managing director and chief commercial officer, takes on an elevated role to strengthen global commercial alignment and leverage Travel Counsellors’ collective buying power.

Meanwhile, Sam Dixon joins the business from his previous roles at Pets at Home and OC&C, taking on the position of chief strategy and transformation officer.

He will drive strategic alignment, execution and transformation across the group, including embedding AI into the company’s strategy and growth plans.

Franchise sales director Matt Harding becomes the new franchise managing director.

Pedro Castro is appointed chief international and growth officer and will drive the company’s international growth strategy, working closely with leadership teams across its international markets “to help every market realise its full potential”.

Jon Bauer has an enhanced international remit as chief technology officer with a broadened mandate focusing on integrating technology innovation and AI capability with the human expertise that underpins the brand.

Additional leadership appointments will be made in the coming months as the business continues to grow, according to the company.

Global chief executive Steve Byrne said: “Travel Counsellors continues to grow from a position of strength both in the UK and internationally, and as we build on this momentum, it’s essential that we provide clear leadership, strong alignment and a dedicated market focus.

“This evolution builds on the depth of expertise already within our leadership team and strengthens our ability to combine innovative technology, collective commercial strength and genuine human connection.

“As we scale, our priority remains the same – staying close to our Travel Counsellors and ensuring they feel supported, confident and empowered to grow their businesses.

“That balance – scale with personal support – is what sets Travel Counsellors apart and underpins the continued success of our community.”

Travel Counsellors now supports more than 4,000 travel business owners worldwide following the recent acquisition of TTAND in Canada.

Flemming Friisdahl continues as chief executive in North America, leading the Canadian business and working closely with the group leadership team to drive regional growth.

Pictured: Jim Eastwood and Kirsten Hughes