INDUSTRY observers have reacted with surprise at
MyTravel’s decision to put The McCarten Partnership in charge of the multiple’s
restructure.
MyTravel UK and Ireland chief executive Duncan Wilson
denied Kevin McCarten’s lack of travel experience would present any problems,
as the restructure was not about personalities but dealing with the issues
facing the company.
“I would agree it would be entirely inappropriate to
have a senior management team that had no travel people in it, but that’s not
the case. We have a senior management team that has a balance between industry,
general business and other external experience,” he said.
However, sources have questioned the rationale behind
the move, claiming MyTravel needs people at senior level with extensive
experience of running a tour operation.
“They’ve got rid of anyone with any tour operating
knowledge,” said one source. “How can you report into The McCarten Partnership,
and not a person?” asked another.