THE CITY has backed Thomson Travel Group’s decision to appoint Charles Gurassa as its new chief executive.
Gurassa will move from British Airways by January 1, where his future has been uncertain since his position as director of passenger and cargo business was axed two months ago.
City analysts revealed they could not back acting chief executive Roger Burnell, (Travel Weekly November 1) but welcomed Gurassa.
One said:”This is a good decision. He’s new blood with a fresh approach, which is what is needed.
“Now Gurassa needs to bring in some new people to help get Thomson back on track.”
Another said:”For the first time in living memory, Thomson has appointed someone from outside and that is needed.
“Gurassa knows the travel industry after 11 years at Thomas Cook and 10 at BA.”
He described the job as a ‘chance of a lifetime’ but said he would give himself three months before making changes.
Gurassa refused to comment on criticisms of Thomson but said: “Corporate arrogance is commercial disaster and any business that I run will not have that attitude.”
He added the current internal review of businesses would continue. Burnell will stay on to assist the change but is expected to leave next year.
Gurassa will also assist with the selection of a new chairman following Michael Brown’s decision to step down.
n See At Lunch, pages 44-47