Isle of Man-based Online Regional Travel Group (“ORTG”) ave announced that Simon Goddard, previously IT Director, has been appointed Chief Executive of the Group.

Simon joined the Company in 1999 originally as Technical Director of Wayfarers World Travel Limited before becoming Director of Technology for the Group as a whole in 2007. He later became IT Director in September 2011 with a responsibility for the company-wide technology and communications strategy including budgets and implementation.

With the announcement of this appointment, Brian Kelly, who founded the Group and who was previously Chief Executive, has been elevated to the role of Chairman. Brian will oversee the growth of the business into the Middle East and Africa. ORTG was formed as a group by Brian Kelly in 2007. It is now very much seen as an IT specialist within the travel sector thanks to the way it has pioneered travel technology, delivering what the market demands before anyone else in specific areas.

Commenting on the changes, Brian Kelly, Chairman of ORTG, said: “I am delighted that Simon has agreed to take up the reins as CEO of ORTG. Since founding the business over 30 years ago, it has changed dramatically and we have gone from strength to strength. It was always my ambition to move into other regions and we want to build on the success of our established online travel websites with the launch of FlyAbuDhabi.co.uk. The growth of the Group into new exciting regions globally is going to be my primary focus going forward and so I am moving away from the day-to-day running of the business.”

Simon Goddard, Chief Executive of ORTG added: “I look forward to working with Brian in driving the business forward. We have seen tremendous growth over the past few years and it is an exciting time to head up the Group.”

Photo - Brian Kelly and Simon Goddard.