The Travel Corporation (TTC) has announced Melissa DaSilva's appointment as Interim CEO of TTC Tour Brands, effective immediately.
DaSilva, who most recently served as President of TTC Tour Brands North America, brings more than 30 years of industry expertise to her new role. She'll succeed Gavin Tollman, who will exit the business when the company sale closes later this year.
In her interim position, DaSilva will oversee TTC Tour Brands' portfolio of six brands, which includes Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, and Contiki.
Tollman, who has been at the helm of TTC Tour Brands since its inception, will continue to support DaSilva during the leadership transition.
“Melissa has consistently demonstrated her business acumen and leadership throughout her tenure as President of North America, said Tollman. "Her deep understanding of TTC Tour Brands' diverse portfolio and her strategic vision make her the ideal choice to steer the company through this pivotal time."
“I am excited and honoured to lead TTC Tour Brands through this important phase in its history. The opportunities ahead for the brands and the talented teams behind them are immense. Together, we will ensure a seamless transition and set a strong foundation for continued success,” said DaSilva.
DaSilva, who lives in southern California, will also support the search process for her successor as President of North America.
The Travel Corporation and Apollo-managed funds on 16JUL announced they have entered into a definitive agreement for Apollo Funds to acquire TTC, which has been privately owned and operated for more than a century. The company is based in Cypress, California and has thousands of employees at offices on six continents, including one in Toronto.
“For more than 104 years our family has built TTC into an industry leader known for exceptional service and innovation,” Tollman said when the deal was announced in July. “Without a next generation to lead TTC, the time has come in our strategic succession plan to select a new owner with a proven track record and who shares in our vision and customer-first values.
“We will support a seamless transition and are confident the team at Apollo will continue driving the business forward to meet growing global demand for touring, river cruising and specialist and adventure travel.”
Certain brands, notably The Red Carnation Hotel Collection, are not included in the sale and will remain under the continued stewardship of the Tollman family.
