Helloworld Travel has announced a key leadership transition within Express Travel Group (ETG), with long-serving CEO and Director Tom Manwaring set to retire from his executive role effective 30 June 2025.
Tom Manwaring, who purchased ETG in 2003 and transformed it from a small VFR consolidation business into one of the industry’s leading travel distribution companies, will move into the role of non-executive Chairman of ETG/FTG within the wider Helloworld Group. His decades-long career has spanned senior management in aviation and key industry board roles, including his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic as Chairman of ATIA.
Succeeding him is Jason Aghan, currently General Manager of Sales & Marketing at ETG. From 1 July 2025, Jason will take on the position of Group General Manager ETG and will lead the business into its next phase of growth.
“Jason already sits on the Executive Management Team of HLO, and I congratulate him on the outstanding job he has done since ETG became a part of HLO and on his promotion to this position,” said Andrew Burnes AO, CEO and Managing Director of Helloworld Travel.
A leader for the next generation
With a strong background in aviation and seven years at ETG, Jason has been integral to the expansion of ETG’s agency networks and overall business growth.
Tom Manwaring commented, “Jason is the best person to lead our network of members into the next chapter of its success. I am proud of the network and the legacy it will continue to have in the travel industry. I am also delighted to be taking on a role that allows me to be involved with the business across Australia and New Zealand.”
From 1 July 2025, all senior ETG/FTG management team members will report to Jason Aghan.
