Thomas Cook has appointed Reto Wilhelm to run its UK business.
Wilhelm, currently managing director of the group’s West/East region, is promoted to lead the UK business while also continuing to drive the turnaround of the company’s French operation.
“His extensive experience of the travel industry, and work in Thomas Cook will be important as the Group continues to professionalise its UK operation and transform the business to deliver consistent, profitable, sustainable growth,” the company said.
In a statement to the City released this morning, chief executive Harriet Green said she had now completed her executive committee.
Peter Fankhauser, currently chief executive for Thomas Cook UK and Continental Europe, will take on a newly created position of group chief operating officer, reporting to Green.
Salman Syed, previously with Green’s former business Premier Farnell, replaces Wilhelm as managing director West/East next month.
He is described as an accomplished business and transformation leader who is accustomed to fast paced, global environments, having worked for a number of major international companies across Europe, North America and Asia including Arrow Electronics and Premier Farnell.
Green said: “As we continue to drive the transformation of the Thomas Cook Group, I am pleased to announce the completion of my executive committee, another step on our journey to further professionalise the group, break down regional silos and realign leadership responsibilities to accelerate the delivery of our strategy for sustainable profitable growth.
“I look forward to leading this strengthened team as we deliver on our targets for 2015 and beyond.”