Tom Manwaring, the current CEO and director of Express Travel Group (ETG), will retire from his CEO position on 30 June 2025.
Manwaring bought ETG in 2003. At that time, it was a small business focused on Asian Visiting Friends and Relatives (VFR) travel. Over the years, he grew it into one of the leading travel distribution companies in the industry. Eventually, the business was sold to Helloworld for $70 million.
Helloworld Travel Limited completed its full acquisition of ETG in August 2023. The $70 million payment was made in two parts. The first part was $40 million in cash plus $10 million in newly issued Helloworld shares. The second part was $15 million in cash and $5 million in Helloworld shares.
In a statement, Helloworld praised Manwaring’s career. They highlighted his senior roles in aviation and important industry board positions. Most recently, he played a key role as Chairman of the Australian Travel Industry Alliance (ATIA), helping the industry through the challenges of COVID-19.
Manwaring will now take on the role of non-executive Chairman of ETG/FTG. He will serve in this position within the wider Helloworld Group.
Following this change, Jason Aghan will take over as group general manager of ETG. Aghan is currently the general manager of Sales & Marketing at ETG.
Andrew Burnes AO, CEO and managing director of Helloworld Travel, said, “Jason is already part of the Helloworld executive team. I congratulate him on the excellent work he has done since ETG joined Helloworld. I also congratulate him on his promotion.”
Aghan has a long history in aviation management. He joined ETG seven years ago and has been key to growing the business and expanding the agency network within ETG.
Manwaring said, “Jason is the best person to lead our member network into the next phase of success. I am proud of the network and the legacy it will maintain in the travel industry. I am also pleased to take a role that keeps me involved with the business across Australia and New Zealand.”
Starting 1 July, all senior managers at ETG/FTG will report to Jason Aghan.
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