MTA turns to former rival to drive growth

MTA turns to former rival to drive growth
By admin


The former general manager of TravelManagers, Don Beattie, will pit his wits against his former bosses after agreeing to return to world of home-based retailers with Mobile Travel Agents (MTA).

Beattie, who led TravelManagers from 2006 to 2008, will return to the industry as MTA chief executive with immediate effect.

MTA managing director Roy Merricks described the appointment as a “major coup” for the company. But he stressed it did not mean he or wife and fellow MD Karen Merricks were stepping back from the business they founded 13 years ago.

Merricks said Beattie’s experience and “broad understanding” of home-based agents would help drive the business forward.

“Don is recognised industry-wide as one of the most experienced and highly regarded executive administrators of the MTA concept in Australia and we are delighted to have him on the management team,” he said.

Beattie will oversee the day to day operation of MTA, a role Merricks said will allow him and his wife to focus on the strategic direction of the company and to “re-kindle" a closeness with members.

“To do that we need to ensure the day to day business is being taken care of,” he said.

Beattie’s return to travel retailing comes at a time when all major home-based groups are looking to swell their numbers on the back of the major restructure at Jetset Travelworld.

Home-based leaders believe many bricks and mortar agents will explore their options in light of JTG’s rebrand to Helloworld and will consider setting up from home.

Since leaving TravelManagers, Beattie worked for software specialist Travel Who and video conferencing firm Broadreach Services.

Latest News