Former Orbitz Worldwide distribution director Darren Barker is joining Emirates Holidays as general manager of its UK operations.
He will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Emirates Holidays UK office and oversee long-term growth plans of the Emirates Holidays UK business.
Barker, who was involved in the turnaround and growth of European OTA Ebookers, succeeds Fabio Prestijacopo who has been appointed vice president business support for Emirates’ Destination & Leisure Management (D&LM) division based in Dubai.
Emirates’ D&LM divisional senior vice president Marc Bennett said: “Darren has extensive experience within the travel industry, and he is a great fit for the role of general manager for Emirates Holidays.
“We look forward to the energy and drive he will bring to reaching our growth targets as we continue to expand Emirates Holidays.”
Barker said: “As the airline’s tour operator, Emirates Holidays extends the quality and experience that Emirates provides in the air, to the customer on-ground at their destination.
“I look forward to working with the team to drive the business towards our growth targets.”
Emirates has 16 daily flights from the UK to its Dubai hub.