Online Regional Travel Group appoints Simon Goddard as chief executive

Online Regional Travel Group appoints Simon Goddard as chief executive

Online Regional Travel Group IT director Simon Goddard has stepped up to become chief executive.

Online Regional Travel Group IT director Simon Goddard has stepped up to become chief executive.

Former chief executive and group founder Brian Kelly becomes chairman of the Isle of Man-based business.

Kelly will oversee the growth of the business into the Middle East and Africa.

Goddard joined the company in 1999 as technical director of Wayfarers World Travel, before becoming director of technology for the group in 2007.

He became IT director in 2011 with a responsibility for company-wide technology and communications strategy, including budgets and implementation.

Kelly said: “I am delighted that Simon has agreed to take up the reins as CEO.

“Since founding the business over 30 years ago, it has changed dramatically and we have gone from strength to strength.

“It was always my ambition to move into other regions and we want to build on the success of our established online travel websites with the launch of FlyAbuDhabi.co.uk.

“The growth of the group into new exciting regions globally is going to be my primary focus going forward and so I am moving away from the day-to-day running of the business.”

Goddard added: “I look forward to working with Brian in driving the business forward. We have seen tremendous growth over the past few years and it is an exciting time to head up the group.”