Peakwork appoints new CFO amid ‘internationalisation programme’

German travel software specialist Peakwork has appointed a new chief financial officer as part of its ‘internationalisation programme’.

Pictured: Thomas van Kaldenkerken

German travel software specialist Peakwork has appointed a new chief financial officer as part of its ‘internationalisation programme’.

Dr Thomas van Kaldenkerken will focus on company finances, HR and supporting strategic company development.

The Düsseldorf-based company, which employs 130 people, said that it is driving forward an internationalisation programme in response to a growing interest in Peakwork and an increasing demand for its Player-Hub technology – its high performance solution for travel production and sales.

More than 80 international tour operators, 30 international airlines and flight providers and 20 of the world’s biggest hotel providers use Peakwork’s technology for producing travel products.

Van Kaldenkerken’s change from the supervisory board, which he was on from 2013-2015, into the management team means he brings expertise in strategic company management and expansion strategies.

He said: “The international travel industry currently runs through some highly exciting market changes.

“Peakwork and its unique Player-Hub technology will experience a tremendous development in the next few years that I want to support with personal enthusiasm and total commitment.”

The Doctor of economics also is chair of the board of Baker Tilly Roelfs and previously led the international expansion of Schleich by expanding new business areas, where he still acts as a member of the advisory board.

As the international managing partner of OC&C Strategy Consultants he has 20 years of experience in the development of business strategies for retail and consumer goods industry.

“The response of the world-wide travel industry to the Player-Hub technology and the business model of Peakwork is absolutely impressive,” he said.

“I am sure that in the next few years an enormous and extraordinary development is upcoming for the company – and I’d like to join them in it.”

Ralf Usbeck, chief executive of Peakwork, said: “We are happy to have the strong support of two strategic experts with their broad experience.

“Peakwork AG has reached a new step in development. Our particular interest now lies in the phase of global expansion – all our efforts are focused on this.

“In this way we want to keep up the quality and speed of corporate development to a constantly high level.”