Tui has reassured agents of its ongoing commitment to the trade following changes to its UK leadership team and the introduction of a new group-wide operational structure.
The changes to the operator’s Markets + Airline division announced last week saw chief marketing officer Neil Swanson take over from outgoing managing director Andrew Flintham, who is leaving to join direct-sell operator British Airways Holidays.
Swanson, whose previous role included oversight of Tui’s return to proactive third-party trade engagement, becomes managing director for the UK & Ireland region.
More: Neil Swanson to take helm at Tui UK
In a message to trade partners, Swanson said the new approach would not affect relations with agents, confirming that each of Tui’s markets would continue to control its strategy, including distribution and local marketing.
He also said third-party agents were “vital” to Tui’s business, with Andrew Isherwood continuing to lead commercial partnerships as head of trade relations.
The new Tui Group structure will see its core package business complemented by dynamic packages and single components.
The Germany-based company said it also aims to increase personalised offers and grow ancillaries, adding: “The successful retail and online direct channels will be at the centre of the group’s growth ambitions.”
The new operating model for the Markets + Airline division will see the creation of a ‘Marketplace’ for the core business, plus a separate unit covering ‘Expansion Businesses’, which will focus on new product categories and markets.
The commercial function of Tui Airline has also been expanded, with Peter Glade being appointed as its first chief commercial officer.
Group chief executive Sebastian Ebel said: “In addition to being a successful package tour operator with a strong brand, we will offer a growing portfolio of products, services and destinations. The aim is to sell more products to more customers globally.”
Helen Caron, Tui Group director of product and purchasing, is leaving after 24 years with the company. Prior to her group role, Caron held UK positions including managing director of the company’s cruise division and distribution director.