HF Holidays has chosen Chris Simmonds as its new chief executive, succeeding David Harrington, who is retiring after a remarkable tenure. With a commitment to maintaining the company’s cooperative ethos, Simmonds is set to embrace this new role with determination.
Simmonds, transitioning from his position at JG Travel Group, is anticipated to steer HF Holidays towards its growth objectives. His extensive background in the travel and not-for-profit sectors aligns well with the company’s goals, addressing opportunities and challenges ahead.
Leadership Transition at HF Holidays
HF Holidays has announced the appointment of Chris Simmonds as the new chief executive, taking over from David Harrington. Harrington, who has been a significant presence at HF Holidays for four decades, will retire this year, facilitating a generational shift in leadership.
Simmonds will commence his role on October 1, during which he will engage closely with the organisation to acquaint himself before fully assuming the leadership responsibilities. This meticulous transition plan underscores the importance HF Holidays places on continuity and stability.
Chris Simmonds: A Proven Leader
Chris Simmonds brings a wealth of experience to HF Holidays, having held prominent roles in both the travel and not-for-profit sectors. His leadership at JG Travel Group and Saga Holidays has fortified his expertise in marketing, sales, and operations within the travel industry.
Before his role at JG Travel Group, Simmonds worked extensively in the not-for-profit sector. His focus on providing holidays for individuals with disabilities highlights his dedication to inclusive and accessible travel experiences.
Simmonds has expressed his excitement and commitment to uphold HF Holidays’ cooperative values. He emphasised collaboration with colleagues, the board, and members to achieve the ambitious growth plans set forth by the organisation.
David Harrington’s Legacy
David Harrington has been a cornerstone of HF Holidays, dedicating 40 years to the organisation and steering it through transformative periods such as Brexit, the pandemic, and economic fluctuations.
Under his leadership, HF Holidays accomplished significant milestones, including securing B-Corp certification, a testament to the company’s commitment to sustainable and ethical business practices.
Harrington’s tenure is marked by resilience and innovation, ensuring the organisation’s growth and sustainability. He leaves behind a strong foundation for Simmonds to build upon, with a strategy focused on long-term impact and member engagement.
HF Holidays’ Vision for Growth
HF Holidays is poised for ambitious growth under Simmonds’ leadership. The organisation aims to expand its reach while remaining true to its values of community and cooperation.
The board, led by chair Ben Reid, expressed confidence in Simmonds’ ability to harness his experience at Saga Holidays to effectively navigate the complex travel industry landscape.
HF Holidays’ dedication to gender balance was evident in its rigorous search process, resulting in over 300 applications for the chief executive position. This approach reflects the organisation’s commitment to diversity and future readiness.
Strategic Challenges and Opportunities
Entering a new chapter, HF Holidays is set to tackle both challenges and opportunities with a renewed strategic focus.
The travel industry continues to evolve, and HF Holidays is positioned to adapt to new market trends and consumer expectations. The organisation’s cooperative model offers a unique advantage in building resilient and supportive travel experiences.
With Simmonds at the helm, HF Holidays is well-equipped to continue its legacy of providing exceptional experiences while pursuing innovative growth strategies.
Looking Ahead with Chris Simmonds
Simmonds is optimistic about leading HF Holidays into the future, expressing a deep commitment to its cooperative principles and community focus.
His strategic vision includes fostering collaborative relationships with stakeholders and leveraging his extensive experience to elevate HF Holidays’ position in the travel sector.
Simmonds aims to bolster HF Holidays’ market presence by prioritising sustainable tourism and expanding the organisation’s diverse offerings to attract a broader audience.
Conclusion and Farewell
As Chris Simmonds prepares to embark on his journey with HF Holidays, the organisation stands at the threshold of new opportunities and growth potential.
David Harrington’s departure marks the end of a significant era, but his enduring influence will guide the company as it ventures forward under Simmonds’ leadership.
With Chris Simmonds at the helm, HF Holidays is set to continue its legacy of offering remarkable travel experiences while pursuing growth and sustainability.
The new chapter promises to blend tradition with innovation, ensuring HF Holidays thrives under Simmonds’ leadership and remains a beacon of cooperative travel. As Simmonds succeeds David Harrington, expectations for a seamless transition are high, with the focus on maintaining the company’s core values and exploring innovative opportunities.
