02 July 2010

Blastland to step down as Tui managing director

Dermot Blastland is to step down as Tui Travel UK managing director in October, handing over the reigns to Johan Lundgren, the current managing director, Northern Region.

Blastland, who has worked for the group for 22 years, led the recent integration of the Thomson and First Choice businesses and reshaped Tui's business in Ireland.

Lundgren was appointed managing director with overall responsibility for Tui UK & Ireland, Tui Nordic & Canada in December 2007 and Blastland has reported directly into him since that date.

Blastland will remain with the Tui group working directly with chief executive Peter Long and Lundgren to lead the group’s sustainable development initiatives.

Long said: "During his 22 years with the Group, Dermot has held many senior roles of increasing importance.

"At all times he has brought to us his valuable blend of industry experience, business insights, leadership of colleagues and unique personality.

"I very much enjoy working with and value Dermot as a colleague and am delighted that he will continue to be part of the business as group sustainable development director from October.

"Johan has been with the Group for seven years within which time he has built our very profitable Nordic business with its strong business model and, since his appointment as Northern Region Managing Director, has led our successful strategic change in Canada.

"For almost a year, Johan has been based in the UK working closely with Dermot on the planned management transition. He will now take direct control of our largest business and I wish him every continuing success in his new enlarged role."

By Linsey McNeill