Ian Simmonds named non-executive director of Advantage 

Ian Simmonds has been named as a new independent non-executive director of the Advantage Travel Partnership.

He has been working with the consortium as interim chief financial officer having been originally brought in to lead a comprehensive review of its group-wide financial strategy. 

Simmonds, a chartered accountant, previously served as chief operating officer at Mercury Holidays and held various leadership roles at Travel Republic, including managing director and finance director. 

His earlier career saw him work as finance director at Thomson Airways and Island Cruises. 

He joins other non-executive directors including Suzanne Horner, Grey Dawes Group; James Beagrie, Meon Travel; Sharon May, Worldwide Travel Solutions and Paul Harwick, Fred Olsen Travel.

Advantage chair Steven Esom said: "Ian’s extensive experience and strategic insight have been transformative for our group, helping us optimise our capital structure and enhance our financial planning capabilities. 

“In this new role, he brings over 20 years of strategic, commercial and financial expertise in the travel sector from a career spanning large corporations, start-ups and SMEs, where he has consistently driven impressive results.

“I have every confidence that he will bring significant value to how we continue to shape our ambitious strategy for the future. His proven track record of navigating industry challenges and driving business transformation will make him an invaluable advisor to our board."

Simmonds added: “I am delighted to be taking on this role, which allows me to help shape the future of what is an exceptionally high-profile brand in the industry, in a sector that is rapidly evolving.  

“I am looking forward to working with the board to ensure we continue to deliver growth and increased value to all its key stakeholders, through long-term strategic planning and execution.”