There’s been a big change at the top of one of Australia’s biggest online travel agents (OTA), with Katrina Barry returning to the travel industry as CEO of Webjet B2C, effective immediately.
Global CEO of mobile technology company me&u for the last two-plus years, Barry returns to an industry that saw her lead Contiki Holidays and Trafalgar Tours as Managing Director from 2014 to 2022.
She has also held several non-executive directorships including at Webjet since December 2022, which should stand her in good stead for the new chief executive role. Katrina steps down from the Webjet board today.
Webjet Limited Managing Director John Guscic said Barry brings “a wealth of knowledge and experience” to the business.
“I am confident that she will bring considerable value to Webjet B2C and we are excited to see the Webjet B2C business reach new heights under her leadership,” he remarked.
The new appointment comes as the company continues with the potential separation of its two leading travel divisions, WebBeds and Webjet B2C, via a demerger.
The company announced on 22 May its plans to separate the divisions into two standalone companies. The demerger will create Webjet B2C and Webjet B2B, each listed on the ASX. Shareholders will receive shares in both companies, enhancing their ability to adapt and build long-term value, the company stated in an ASX update today.
Webjet Limited Chair Roger Sharp thanked Barry for her contribution as a valuable member of the board.
“Under Katrina’s leadership, supported by the existing Webjet B2C management team, we are confident that Webjet B2C will thrive as a standalone company,” he added.
Meanwhile, Layton Shannos has been named CFO of Webjet B2C, bringing over a decade of management experience in the OTA business, most recently as CFO.
If the demerger proceeds, Don Clarke will become Chair of B2C, and Brad Holman and Shelley Beasley will be Non-Executive Directors. Clarke, a board member since 2008, will step down post-demerger. Brad will stay on the B2B’s board, and Shelley will continue as Webjet B2B’s Global COO.
Webjet expects the appointments’ extensive experience to support both companies as they grow.
“These appointments ensure Webjet B2C is led by a CEO and Board who have diverse and complementary skills and expertise, as well as the experience required to position Webjet B2C for continued success as a separately listed company in a continuously evolving and dynamic environment,” Sharp added.
