Dnata Travel Group has appointed Lesley Rollo as its new UK chief executive.

The appointment follows confirmation in October last year that Ailsa Pollard would step down from the role in February.

Rollo will start her new role on Thursday and will oversee the group’s seven UK-based brands – B2C operators Travelbag, Travel Republic and Netflights, and B2B operators Gold Medal, Pure Luxury, Cruise Plus and Incredible Journeys. She will be based between the group’s offices in London and Leyland and will report to dnata Travel Group chief executive John Bevan.

Rollo has been with dnata for almost five years as managing director of Travelbag, and previously served as long-haul managing director for Travelopia.

She said: “I’m thrilled to announce my new role and excited to work with our exceptional teams to shape the future together. I’m ready for the challenges and eager to make an impact across our UK business and wider dnata Travel Group.”

Bevan said: “Lesley brings a wealth of experience from her previous role leading our UK-based Travelbag brand and being a key member of our UK board. She is highly regarded within the industry, having extensive prior experience within tour operating across a variety of well-known travel businesses.

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Lesley for several years, and know her ability to navigate our industry, inspire our teams, and drive continued strategic vision and innovation, which makes her an ideal fit for this position to continue to grow our UK brands.”

He added: “As she embarks on a new chapter, we would also like to thank Ailsa Pollard for her commitment and contributions to the dnata Travel Group. A key member of the team for over a decade, she has played an integral and dynamic role in our global success story. On behalf of the group, we wish her every success in the future.”