Andy Freeth, the CEO of luxury tour operator, If Only, is set to make an exit at the end of July.
Gordon McCreadie, currently product and distribution director, will take charge of If Only, in his place, with his promotion as the general manager of the company. The business will continue to report to its executive board of its parent company, The Portman Travel Group. Mr McCreadie (pictured) will be reporting to Lisa Fitzell, managing director at sister company Elegant Resorts.
Redmond Walsh, CEO of Portman Travel Group said, ?Andy and I go back a long way and he leaves us with best wishes. He has left in his wake, a very solid and capable team, with a clear plan. I have known Gordon and his senior team of Tracy Docherty and David Irving for many years now and look forward to working with them more closely. Despite the short-term challenges faced by the luxury travel sector, we are optimistic about seeing the demand come back over the next 18 months. As a trade-only operator, If Only will continue to provide bespoke luxury holidays and tours to some of the world?s most beautiful destinations. Gordon has great ambitions for If Only, and Lisa and the PTG board look forward to supporting him and his team in achieving those ambitions over the next few years.?
Mr Freeth said, ?It has been a great couple of years and I am proud of what the team has achieved. We moved offices, grew turnover significantly, increased the product range, and professionalised all aspects of the business. I know that Gordon will do an excellent job, leading If Only and I look forward to seeing the team take the business through its next phase of growth. COVID-19 has had a material impact on the business, but with supportive, well-financed owners, loyal customers, and a great team, I am confident that they have a bright future ahead. I feel sad to leave but I had been planning since last November and I am excited about what my next project might be.?
?After a short break, and hopefully an enjoyable summer holiday, I hope to remain in the travel industry, and I am keen to explore other sectors. Although our industry is having a difficult period, I am optimistic about the sector?s medium and long-term future,? said Mr Freeth.
Mr McCreadie commented, ?I have worked with Andy for more than 10 years now, and they have undoubtedly been the best of my career so far. Andy leaves the business with my best wishes for the future, although it does mean we are breaking up our double act. We have a strong succession plan in place, to support the continued development of the If Only brand. Tracy, David and myself, are under no illusions that market is going to be challenging now, as it has been over the last three months, with strong competition and potentially less business. We will make sure, If Only offers the best every day. With an excellent team in Glasgow, the support of our loyal agents, and the backing of The Portman Travel Group, we are confident that we will achieve our goals and are excited about taking the company to the next level as a team.?
