A management reshuffle at Hotelplan has been triggered by UK boss Paul Carter stepping down at the end of October for personal reasons.
He is being succeeded as Hotelplan UK chief executive by Explore Worldwide managing director Joe Ponte from November 1.
Explore deputy managing director John Telfer will take charge until a longer term successor is found.
Carter’s resignation is unrelated to the corona crisis but entirely for personal reasons, the company announced.
More: Hotelplan UK to launch consultation over job losses and office closure [June 20]
He has headed the UK group, which comprises of brands such as Inghams, Esprit, Flexiski, Explore and Inntravel, since spring 2017.
Hotelplan Group chief executive Thomas Stirnimann said: “I deeply regret Paul’s decision to leave Hotelplan UK, but understand and respect the personal reasons behind this.
“On behalf of the entire executive committee, I would like to offer our sincere thanks for his tireless commitment with the group and wish him the very best for his future”.
Carter said: “It has been an absolute privilege to be at the helm here.
“I have had five challenging but fantastically enjoyable years with our award-winning brands. I want to thank my amazing team and colleagues, and the unwavering support from Thomas Stirnimann and the Hotelplan board.”
Stirnimann added: “I am convinced that I have found the ideal successor in Joe Ponte.
“From his previous role he knows Hotelplan UK and the current challenges very well. I wish him every success in his new position.”
Ponte has headed Explore for more than two years having previously worked in various companies in the tourism sector both in the UK and his native Australia.
In his new role, Ponte also becomes a member of Hotelplan Group’s executive management team.
More: Hotelplan UK to launch consultation over job losses and office closure [June 20]
