Open Destinations promotes John Davies to be new CEO

He was previously the firm's CTO

Travel technology specialist Open Destinations has named John Davies as its new CEO, who will take over the leadership of the company effective immediately. 

Kevin O’Sullivan, the founder and current CEO, will transition to the role of executive chair, to focus on strategic initiatives and acquisitions.

Davies previously worked as director of projects for Open Destinations for three years from 2013 and later returned as CTO in 2023. 

He's held senior management positions at companies including TUI, the AA, and 3M.

Since rejoining last year, Davies has been focused on launching a new release for the reservation management platform Travel Studio.

A new app to support tour managers, integrating AI into the software, and streamlining operations, is in development.

Davies said: “I’m delighted to return to Open Destinations to lead the development of our market-leading technology and support services and to work with both our existing and new customers to unlock their growth potential. 

"Open Destinations has grown considerably over the last few years, and the current demand for our products and services remains high. 

"With the emergence of AI and the current optimism in the travel industry, this is a great time to lead Open Destinations.”

Kevin O’Sullivan, executive chair of Open Destinations, added: “John joins us at an exciting time as we continue to grow, and I am confident that his experience and leadership skills will help us remain relevant to our customers in the coming years. 

"I will continue to lead Open Destinations as Executive Chair, working with John and our wider management team to shape the company's strategic direction.”