Thomas Cook poaches TUI man for merchandising role
Thomas Cook has confirmed the appointment of Phil Gardner as new head of merchandising.
He replaces Rob Rospedzihowski, who was brought in by former chief executive Harriet Green from her former employer Premier Farnell two years ago. Rospedzihowski left Thomas Cook in April.
Gardner was previously TUI UK general manager commercial for Thomson and Island Cruises, responsible for the strategic direction of all commercial aspects of TUI UK cruise business.
At Thomas Cook, he will report directly to commercial director Chris Mottershead and focus on bridging the commercial functions of product, yield, retail and online.
"I am delighted to be joining Thomas Cook at such an exciting time," said Gardner. "I am really looking forward to working closely with all the internal teams across the tour operation and distribution divisions as well as our external partners on driving the next phase in Thomas Cook’s development."
Salman Syed, managing director, Thomas Cook UK & Ireland, said: "I’d like to welcome Phil to the business in his new role as head of merchandising.
"The position is key in continuing to improve our core proposition and focus on communicating it in the most relevant way to our customers.
"The quality of the products and services we offer has always been central to Thomas Cook’s philosophy, and Phil’s arrival will help to further improve our performance, ensuring that Thomas Cook remains the most loved and trusted brand in travel."
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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