Southern Travel Holdings, the parent company of The Walshe Group and Southern Travelnet, has announced key changes to its Board of Directors as part of a strategic growth initiative.
Effective 7 April 2025, Ed Sims, a current director, will step into the role of Board Chair, while Jacqui Walshe, the board’s existing Executive Chair, will transition into the position of CEO and Managing Director.
Mr Sims brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as Group President and CEO of WestJet Airline Group, CEO of Airways New Zealand, and Group General Manager at Air New Zealand. He currently holds non-executive director roles at Christchurch International Airport and Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa, while also serving as a board safety advisor for Virgin Australia.
Supporting Mr Sims and Ms Walshe on the board are non-executive directors Frances-Anne Keeler and Dave Simmons, both of whom bring extensive expertise in the tourism sector, alongside Company Secretary Sonia Cordero.
Ms Keeler’s experience includes roles as Deputy CEO of Tourism Australia and Executive Director for VisitBritain in Europe. She currently holds multiple board positions, including Chair of Australian Tourism Data Warehouse and Chocolateria San Churro, as well as a non-executive directorship at Snap Print Solutions.
Mr Simmons has served as CEO of Togo and GM Online & Leisure for Air New Zealand. He currently holds various board and strategic advisory roles across the travel, tourism, insurance, transport, and logistics industries.
The leadership changes align with Southern Travel Holdings’ long-term vision for growth and expansion, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening its position in the travel and tourism sector.
