David Jones appointed as president and chief executive of Amadeus IT Group

Amadeus, a leading provider of technology to the travel and tourism industry, today announced that David Jones has been appointed to take over as president and chief executive of Amadeus IT Group from 1 January, 2009. David Jones has headed up Amadeus global commercial operations since 1992 and has a deep knowledge and experience of…

Amadeus, a leading provider of technology to the travel and tourism industry, today announced that David Jones has been appointed to take over as president and chief executive of Amadeus IT Group from 1 January, 2009.

David Jones has headed up Amadeus global commercial operations since 1992 and has a deep knowledge and experience of the travel industry and Amadeus’ business.

He has worked side by side with José Antonio overseeing the evolution of the company from the newest and smallest GDS competitor, to its current position as the world’s leading supplier of travel distribution and IT solutions for the global travel industry.

José Antonio Tazón will become chairman of the Amadeus board of directors from January 2009.

Tazón said: “As I step down from the CEO role it gives me great peace of mind to pass my responsibilities to such an experienced business manager as David Jones. He has the skills and the knowledge to take Amadeus forward to further success.

“Like all companies we feel the pressure of the world economic downturn, and at times like this it is vital to have the leaders in place that will drive us through to the better times, and future success. David is such a leader.”

Furthermore, Luis Maroto, chief financial officer for Amadeus IT Group is appointed to the additional role of deputy CEO from 1st January 2009, also taking responsibility for Amadeus’ corporate strategy.

Luis remains CFO of the Amadeus Group, a role which he has fulfilled since 2003; Luis joined Amadeus in 2000.

Philippe Chérèque, currently senior vice president for corporate strategy is appointed to the position of executive vice president for commercial to replace David Jones, becoming responsible for all Amadeus commercial operations worldwide.

Philippe has been with Amadeus since the creation of the company in 1987.

Jones said: “It will be difficult to follow a leader with a track record of achievement like José’s and I am delighted that he will remain as Chairman of Amadeus’ Board of Directors.

“The appointments of Luis Maroto and Philippe Chérèque show a continuity and stability in Amadeus management that is a key factor in our success. Both bring deep knowledge of the travel industry in general and Amadeus’ business in particular to their new roles.

“I look forward to working with them and the existing management team of Jean-Paul Hamon and Eberhard Haag, Executive Vice Presidents in charge of Development and Operations respectively, Hans-Henning Quast, Vice President Human Resources and Tomás López Fernebrand, Vice President, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary.”

More information:

* Amadeus