RICHARD Brouwer has risen to the top of Diethelm Travel Group as CEO, replacing John Watson, who says he wants “one more big challenge” before retiring.
The promotion is effective immediately. At the same time, Maarten Groeneveld has taken over Brouwer’s position as COO.
The news comes as a surprise, although Watson, when contacted, said it “has been in the making for a long while”.
“In January I turn 55 and it makes good strategic sense to pass the baton at Diethelm Travel as I would like one more big challenge before I retire. To this end, I have decided to stand down from Diethelm Travel in order to properly plan for the next phase of my life,” said Watson.
“I am flexible as to where I operate from and how I spend my time. Starting a new business, or transforming an existing one, would be of interest, utilising my strong travel/service background, worldwide operational experience and network,” added Watson when asked what his next move would be.
Brouwer, who has been with Diethelm Travel since 2000, said: “I am absolutely delighted with the trust I received from the board members of the Diethelm Travel Holding. With Maarten as the new COO and the entire expertise of all my colleagues in each and every position throughout the Diethelm Travel Group, we are well-placed to further develop and grow Diethelm Travel.”
