10 November 2009

Holiday Extras founder stepping down

Holiday Extras founder Gerry Pack is stepping down from his role as non-executive chairman to focus on other interests, according to the company.

A new post of executive chairman will be filled by current CEO Steve Lawrence.

The change comes in a revamp as the company aims to double earnings by 2015.

Holiday Extras, Airparks, Short Breaks and Holiday Extras Germany will each become a distinct business within the Holiday Extras group.

Each will have their own CEO promoted from within the business.

Each business will benefit from greater focus, a clearer vision for growth and increased investment, the company said.

These changes from December will create career opportunities among the company’s 1,000-strong team, as well as new roles, the company said.

The new CEO at Holiday Extras will be Matthew Pack, currently its web and marketing director. He will be responsible for the core Holiday Extras business - airport parking, airport hotels, holiday insurance and airport lounges.

Sales and operations director Howard Dove becomes CEO of Airparks, a provider of off-airport parking in the UK.

Simon Hagger becomes CEO for short breaks with brands including Play and Stay and Show and Stay, and is the primary operator of UK and German short break contracts for Europe’s leading visitor attractions operator Merlin Entertainments.

The company's continental operation, based in Germany, will be headed by Martin Pundt who was originally managing director and also becomes CEO.

Lawrence said: "The UK has seen a 15% downturn in travellers using its airports during the current recession. By focusing on the customer and through hard work, determination and technical innovation we have grown bookings by four per cent."

by Phil Davies

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Clarification: Gerry Pack isn't leaving

The company founder, Gerry Pack, will retain an active interest in Holiday Extras as a non-exec director.

By melissa geddes, Tuesday, November 10, 2009