| Journal: TWUK | Section: |
| Title: | Issue Date: 12/06/00 |
| Author: | Page Number: 5 |
| Copyright: Other |
Office relocation
Neilson plans move to £3m Brighton base
Report by STEVE JONES
THOMAS Cook’s activity brand, Neilson, is relocating its three separate offices into a new £3m headquarters in Brighton.The operator already has one office in the south coast town, along with departments in Bromley and Bradford.
The phased move will be completed by the beginning of March next year.
JMC deputy managing director Terry Williamson stressed the relocation will not lead to job losses as those unwilling to move will be offered roles elsewhere within the organisation.
“Staff in Bromley may well feel able to travel to Brighton. Some already live there,” said Williamson. “There will also be opportunities at JMC in Bradford for those not wanting to relocate from there.”
Neilson currently employs 25 staff in Brighton, 22 in Bromley and 20 in Bradford.
Up to 50 additional jobs will be created in Brighton to work on new product lines due to be launched in the autumn, added Williamson.
He declined to reveal details of the new ventures.
The aim of the relocation is to provide a more seamless operation which has become difficult to manage given the geographical spread of departments. “It’s very difficult being in three separate offices around the country,” admitted Williamson. “We have been working towards this for some time. It will help us focus on product development over and above the existing ski, sailing, mountain biking and water sports range,” he said.
Meanwhile, Williamson is planning to appoint a new managing director for Neilson following his promotion to deputy MD of JMC Holidays. Williamson will continue to have overall responsibility at board level.
JMC has also announced it will phase out its Lakes and Mountains product for next year while its Beach Villas programme will not come under the control of JMC, having previously been operated by Neilson.
Williamson: promised the relocation will not lead to job losses