Following a record 2017, AC Group is delighted to announce the appointment of Angela Heaton as Managing Director, with Rob Russell and Malcolm Lindop (previously Joint Managing Directors) named Joint Chief Executive Officers. The senior team changes reflect the Group’s commitment to enhancing their strong market position.
Russell and Lindop have overseen the Group’s strongest year yet, including forecasted revenue growth of 69% year-on-year, the Summer 2017 acquisition of their fourth brand, French Travel Partners, and the opening of new offices in Paris and New York to round out the year. The addition of Heaton to the team will allow Russell and Lindop to further focus on growth through strategic acquisitions and expansion opportunities, both at home and abroad.
Heaton, whose appointment marks a return to the industry after a short career break, has more than 30 years’ experience in tourism and hospitality. She will manage the UK divisions of AC Group on a daily basis, providing support to the leadership team and staff whilst delivering projected targets.
Most recently, Heaton was Managing Director at Albatross London, where she oversaw significant growth including mergers, acquisitions and office relocations. Heaton has worked for some of the world’s leading travel and tourism brands including Thomas Cook, ICT, Time Off Ltc, and Hotel Conxions, as well as developing industry leaders of the future through her role as a travel and tourism lecturer at Westminster College.
“AC Group has experienced exciting progression in the last few years and has a hunger to continue to grow. The company’s ethos of being the place to work with and for strongly appealed to me,” says Angela Heaton. “I look forward to working with Rob, Malcolm and the team to enhance our position in the market.”
“Angela’s experience in managing change and transformation made her the stand out candidate,” says Rob Russell, Joint CEO. “Her reputation in the industry for driving businesses forward with a strong operational and commercial focus fits perfectly with the direction we are moving in.”
Malcolm Lindop, Joint CEO, adds: “Angela’s knowledge of the industry and experience in developing and fostering relationships with internal and external stakeholders made her a perfect fit. We’re delighted she’s joined the team and look forward to working with her to further establish AC Group as the leading DMC in the UK.”
