KUONI UK managing director and chairman Peter Diethelm is to head the operator’s new North American division following its acquisition of US-based Intrav last month.
The move will see Kuoni deputy managing director Sue Biggs promoted to managing director.
In one of her first roles as managing director Biggs will review the existing management structure. But she said no major changes will be made.
“This is a natural evolution of the company,” she said. “There is no need to make sweeping changes.”
A deputy to Biggs has not been appointed.
Diethelm, in his new role as chairman of the expanded division, will make monthly visits to the US and look to build the operation either by acquisition or organic growth.
“This is a move we have been planning for a little while,” he said. “Intrav is an upmarket brand which does not sell holidays for less than $2,500. It is an excellent base from which to build.”
He said Kuoni’s UKproduct and technology will be rolled out to the US, to sit alongside Intrav.
Meanwhile, Diethelm predicted Kuoni will remain independent for at least another two years following its collapsed merger with First Choice.
“We are in a strong position and do not need to rush into anything,” he said. “We sought a merger with First Choice because there was an opportunity to do so, not because we needed to.”