HolidayPirates Group bolsters strategic focus with new C-suite appointments

Two out of three appointments have been promoted from within the firm

European deals expert HolidayPirates Group has announced the appointment of three new C-level executives to drive its ambitious growth plans.

The Berlin-based company, which adopted a flat hierarchical structure as a result of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, is now expanding its leadership team.

It has appointed a chief people officer (CPO), a chief operating officer (COO) and a chief financial officer (CFO).

Vivien Schwarz-Elbelazi, who has been with the HolidayPirates Group since July 2016, most recently as head of people & culture, has been named as CPO. 

She will take over the management of human resources, workplace management, IT administration, organisational development and internal communication.

She will also continue to build and shape the company culture, with a strong focus on inclusivity, well-being and professional and personal growth for employees. 

Judith Eyck has been part of the executive team since May 2023 and was previously head of market for the Dutch market, VakantiePiraten, while also responsible for Virtual Tour Operating (VTO) and data analytics. 

She has now taken on the role of COO and, in addition to VTO and data analytics, she is responsible for global operations, including marketing, brand, PR & creative studio, product development and e-Commerce.

Eyck is the co-founder of Vakanties.nl and was the CEO of Zoover, where contributed significantly to the growth and innovation of these companies.

Sönke Kisker joins as CFO of the HolidayPirates Group, with responsibility for finance and legal and data protection. 

With over ten years of experience in similar roles at companies such as Trivago and the Pepper Group, he will be "instrumental" in supporting its continued profitable growth.

All will operate alongside the CEO to shorten decision-making processes, increase efficiency and optimise the company's goals for further growth.

CEO and co-founder of the HolidayPirates Group, David Armstrong, will continue to lead the core Market Operations function to ensure a closer connection with the regional market teams operating across Europe and North America and support their individual needs. 

This will enable a strong focus on growth, revenue, strategic partnerships and future-oriented initiatives.

Armstrong said: "This reorganisation marks an important next step forward in order to be operationally up-to-date and better able to pursue our ambitious strategic goals. 

"Our new Chief People Officer, who will play a central role in strengthening our corporate culture, is particularly noteworthy. 

"With a clear focus on the importance of our employees and their satisfaction, we are providing a strong impetus for a positive working environment that promotes innovation and collaboration."

He added: "We are convinced that a strong corporate culture is the key to long-term success and sustainable value creation in a constantly changing market environment."