Simon Ferguson will join Travelport as regional director for the UK and Ireland after quitting his new post at Travelzoo where he is currently general manager for its Destinations and Network business.

Ferguson was appointed GM at Travelzoo only six weeks ago.

In his new Travelport post, which takes effect from September 12th, he will be responsible for continuing Travelport’s success in the UK and Ireland where it has recently grown its share of the global distribution sector. Ferguson will report to president and managing director for Europe and Brazil Jason Clarke.

“Simon is a highly experienced general manager with an impressive track record in achieving the goals he sets his sights on,” commented Jason Clarke, president and managing director, Europe and Brazil for Travelport.

“I am certain that with his extensive knowledge of the UK travel industry and travel technology sector, combined with his business acumen and customer-centric approach, Simon will be able to take the Travelport business from strength to strength in this region.

“We are delighted to have been able to recruit such a high calibre successor to this important role.”

Ferguson, who will be based in Langley, Berkshire, commented: “Travelport is a dynamic organisation, and one which has played a pivotal role in shaping the travel distribution landscape. It is fantastic to be joining at a time when Travelport is reinforcing its leadership position in the UK and Ireland and launching some very innovative and leading-edge technology.”

The appointment follows the decision by current job holder, Jerome Moisan, to leave the business and pursue a career opportunity outside of the travel industry later in the year.