Michael Edwards assumes top position at Inntravel

Michael Edwards is to become managing director of specialist operator Inntravel while continuing at the helm of sister company Explore Worldwide.  

The announcement follows Dertour Group’s acquisition of Inntravel parent company Hotelplan Group in February last year,

In addition, Susan Avison, who has been with the Yorkshire-based operator for 28 years, has been promoted to general manager, and will head the senior leadership team.

Edwards joined Explore Worldwide as managing director in April 2021, following six years with the Intrepid Group where he had the role of chief growth officer for two years. 

He said: “I am incredibly excited to be leading Inntravel, a company that I’ve long admired, while retaining the role of m-d at Explore. 

“Inntravel pioneered self-guided walking holidays and has built a loyal customer base who are passionate about this type of travel. 

"Looking ahead, we will protect our heritage and use our recently acquired B Corp status to connect us with other likeminded businesses, as we seek to use travel as a force for good.”

Avison, who joined Inntravel in 1997, said: “Having been part of the Inntravel family for so many years I am thrilled to be leading the senior management team, helping to steer the ship with its staff of 100.”