Former lastminute.com MD appointed dnata chief executive

Since May 2015, Bevan has been based in Florida where he has headed up wellness voucher firm Spafinder. Continue reading →

Former lastminute.com managing director John Bevan is returning to the UK travel trade having been appointed chief executive of Gold Medal and Travel 2 parent dnata Travel.

Since May 2015, Bevan has been based in Florida where he has headed up wellness voucher firm Spafinder.

His appointment comes four months after five senior executives at dnata Travel Europe, including managing director Andy Freeth, announced they were leaving to join rival operator If Only.

Bevan will work alongside another former lastminute.com executive, Andy Washington, dnata Travel’s chief executive B2C Europe, and report to Dubai-based Iain Andrew, divisional senior vice-president.

Bevan, who is due to start in his new role on November 1, said: “I am looking forward to joining the company at such an exciting time.

“Dnata has made no secret of the opportunities available to expand its B2B offering in Europe. It is a real privilege to take the helm and drive this business forward.”

Andrew added: “I am thrilled to welcome John to the team and am confident he will continue to grow our European businesses.

“His exceptional experience in driving results and the strength of his industry partnerships will ensure that he continues to lead our ambitious growth plans.”

Dnata Travel Europe also announced Attraction World sales and marketing director Nick Hughes would join as B2B sales director on November 27.

He will lead the sales team, supported by Colin Currie and Karen Fletcher. Andrew said: “Nick has in-depth knowledge of the sector and is committed to delivering even more for our agent partners as we move into the next exciting stage of our development.”

The new appointments follow former Gold Medal boss Steve Barrass’s return to the UK as dnata Travel senior vice-president new ventures Europe.