Andy Freeth has stepped down as CEO of JG Travel Group with immediate effect.

He has been replaced by Chris Simmonds, who joined the company a few months ago as Marketing Director.

Andy, who become the Group CEO in January 2021, did not give any further details about his future role.

In a statement, he said: “I’d like to thank Luis and Kings Park Capital for the opportunity and for their support over the last two years.

“The JG Travel Group is a great business that Chris is very well placed to lead. I wish him and the rest of the team all the best for the future as they continue to deliver great-value unique experiences.

“I look forward to some time off with my family before announcing my next role.” 

JG Travel Group Chairman Luis Arteaga said:  “On behalf of the Board and the rest of the business, I wish to thank Andy for his work since he joined our business amid a pandemic.

“He brought energy, passion and enthusiasm to the role and we wish him the very best for the future.”

Chris, who was previously Saga Holidays CEO and also boss of Revitalise, a charity and provider of holidays for disabled people, said: “I am excited about the challenge and opportunities ahead. We have fantastic brands with massive addressable market and great prospects. I feel privileged to have a strong support from the Board and the business’s long-term backers, Kings Park Capital

“Whilst the last couple of years have been challenging and turbulent for all of us in the travel industry, to say the least, I am excited to lead the Group into the next phase in its history to deliver profitable growth, and to capitalise on the considerable opportunities that lay ahead for us.”