TAG Announces Leadership Changes: New Chair, CFO & Search For CEO

Global award-winning travel and event management company TAG (The Appointment Group, Ltd.), announced several key leadership changes in support of its continued global growth and expansion strategy.

Fred Stratford has assumed the position of chair. In this role he will lead the board, working closely with TAG investor ECI, and the TAG executive team. Stratford brings deep industry experience, having served as Group CEO at Reed & Mackay, a global travel provider, in which ECI Partners had previously invested.

Stratford boasts more than 25 years of experience in the travel industry and a strong track record of leading high-performing teams. He is “well positioned to support TAG’s continued growth and oversee the relationship between TAG’s executive team and its investors,” the press announcement states.

TAG CEO Jens Penny will be stepping down after seven years with the company. During his tenure, Penny has helped drive TAG’s transformation and international expansion, positioning the business for long-term growth and success.

His leadership has guided TAG through a period of evolution leading up to the company’s investment from ECI Partners in 2024, and has laid the foundations for TAG’s next phase of strategic development.

An external search is currently underway for a new CEO.

“Complementing this leadership evolution,” the press release continues, “John McLaughlin joined TAG as chief financial officer earlier this year. McLaughlin will also serve as a member of the board of directors and executive team.”

He brings 25 years of experience in finance, including CFO appointments in the travel sector and PE backed businesses. McLaughlin will oversee the company’s global finance teams and play a pivotal role in driving financial strategy and performance across all regions.

These changes mark an important step forward in TAG’s long-term growth plan, ensuring the company remains strategically aligned as it continues to expand its global presence and strengthen its partnerships across all divisions.

Comments:

Fred Stratford, chair, TAG: “I’m thrilled to be taking on the Chair role at TAG. The company has an incredible foundation and reputation in the global travel and event management space. I’ve long admired TAG’s high-touch, personalised approach and the outstanding level of service provided to clients around the world. I look forward to building on the great work of our talented team and the exceptional partnerships that have been developed with suppliers. Together with the Executive Team and ECI Partners, we’ll continue driving the company’s next phase of growth and success.”

John McLaughlin, CFO, TAG: “I’m delighted to be joining TAG at such a pivotal and exciting time in its growth journey. As CFO, I look forward to working closely with the leadership team to drive our strategic growth initiatives and deliver enduring value for all stakeholders.”

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