Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) has revealed that Håkan Ericsson, currently president Europe, Middle East, Africa (EMEA) and Latin America, has been appointed president CWT North America and Latin America, effective 1 January 2012. In North America, he will succeed Jack O’Neill, who will retire at the end of this year, after a long and successful travel industry career.

Under O’Neill’s leadership, CWT’s North America business has more than tripled since 2004, thanks in part to the successful acquisition and integration of Navigant International. His contributions to the industry have been widely recognised. In 2007 he received the Carlson Fellows award for leadership and in 2010 he was awarded the Global Business Travel Association’s Allied Member of the Year award.

“On behalf of the entire organisation, I wish to thank Jack for his outstanding contribution to CWT over the last seven years and recognise a lifelong career in the travel industry”, commented Douglas Anderson, CWT president and CEO. “What began with front-line roles in the airline industry later progressed to executive positions including the leadership of Maritz Corporate Travel prior to its acquisition by CWT.”

Håkan Ericsson, in his new role, will continue to serve on the global executive team and to report to Douglas Anderson. Until a replacement is announced, Ericsson will remain president of the EMEA region and Global Partners Network.

A Swedish national, Ericsson has gained wide experience in the area of professional services. Prior to joining CWT in 2008, he held a variety of leadership roles including CEO of Loomis, executive vice president of Support and Related business units for the Scandinavian airline – SAS and managing director of DHL Freight Europe. Ericsson holds a BA in Business Administration from the University of Stockholm.

“Håkan’s strong experience both in and outside the travel industry allows him to bring additional insight to CWT’s North America business. This will benefit our clients, employees, and suppliers,” said Douglas Anderson. “Under his leadership, CWT’s presence in the EMEA region and Latin America has grown stronger. I am confident that under his management, our business in both Latin America and North America will continue to develop successfully.”