Friisdahl retires as CEO of T. Cook NA

Michael Friisdahl, the CEO of Thomas Cook North America is taking early retirement, stepping down from his post to “develop his broad range of interests, including pursuing new business opportunities.” Friisdahl has been responsible for the company’s Canadian operations for the past 10 years and he’s been in charge of the North American division since the merger of MyTravel Plc and the Thomas Cook Group in 2007. Sam Weihagen, Thomas Cook Group Plc’s group CEO, said that Friisdahl’s career with Thomas Cook “has been an impressive one and his contribution to the travel industry over the past 30 years has been significant.” Weihagen noted that Friisdahl’s “strong leadership has led to the further development of the Group’s Canadian retail distribution business and the drive to grow the division’s independent business which is now a market leader.” And on a more personal note, he added that “Michael is a trusted colleague and friend and he will be missed by all of us at Thomas Cook.” Dean Moore, who has been the chief operating officer of Thomas Cook North America since 2008, will assume Friisdahl’s responsibilities as CEO. Weihagen said that Moore “is a valued and respected member of the North American executive team, with extensive senior management experience in the UK prior to relocating to Toronto.” Friisdahl offered his support for Moore’s appointment, commenting that: “Dean’s contribution to the company has been invaluable. He has been an integral part of our positive growth and I have every confidence that under his strong leadership Thomas Cook North America will continue to be the leading travel group it has become.” In order to ensure a smooth and orderly transition of responsibilities, Friisdahl will continue to be available to assist Moore in the near term. “It has been a pleasure working as the CEO of such a dynamic organization and a privilege to lead the company during the past 10 years,” Friisdahl said, before adding: “I am proud of our accomplishments and thank everyone for their support over the years.”