Gavin Tollman

Gavin Tollman is a prominent leader and businessman, recognized for his successful career in the international travel and tourism market. He is currently the CEO of Trafalgar Tours, the world’s leading guided holiday company. He also serves as Chairman of Geneva Travel Company - The Travel Corporation, S.A. as well as of Travel Corporation, PTY, LTD South Africa, Each of these are essential divisions of the global Travel Corporation, a highly successful international travel group. He also sits on a number of boards including two publicly traded travel companies; Cullinan Holdings and Wilderness Safaris.

 

Born in South Africa in 1963, Gavin currently resides in Switzerland. He is a graduate of The American University, Washington DC where he majored in Finance, and is a Certified Travel Counselor (CTC).

 

Professional Experience

Gavin began his career in travel and tourism industry when he entered the hotel industry in 1987 as Executive VP of the Atlanta, Georgia-based Buckhead Hotel Management Co. He later became President of Red Carnation Hotels, a chain of luxury boutique hotels in London and Palm Beach, Florida. In 1997, Gavin was appointed President of Trafalgar Tours USA. Under his direction, Trafalgar USA grew to become the country’s largest European tour operator. Since May 2010, he has held the position of CEO of Trafalgar Tours.

 

As Chairman of a number of the divisions of The Travel Corporation (TTC), a highly successful international travel group, Gavin is instrumental in guiding one of the world's largest privately owned travel and tourism companies. TTC is composed of over 25 international travel and tourism companies, including tour operators, hotels, and other leisure interests. With over 40 offices and more than 4,000 staff spread across five continents, the TTC group carries more than 1 million passengers every year. TTC and South African Tourism (SAT) recently created a two-year strategic alliance aimed at the cooperative marketing, promotion, and development of Destination South Africa. Designed to act as a powerful force for sustainable, equitable growth of South Africa's tourism industry, and leveraging the global awareness of the destination, the joint venture is aimed at increasing year-round travel to South Africa.

 

Giving Back

In addition to developing innovative travel products, an additional facet of Gavin’s career has been the development of a number of sustainable tourism projects. It is his belief that this comprises of two important facets: 1. protect tourist destinations, and 2. to protect tourism as an industry. Some of his initiatives included – ensuring that guests get an understanding of the culture of the communities they visit, respect local cultures. In addition, he looks to support local economies by purchasing local goods and participating with small, local businesses.

 

As a proud South African, to promote Destination South Africa and enhance tourism and travel in the country, TTC’s charitable community activities include working with charities like Amy Biehl. In October 2010 TTC held its wordwide Conference in Cape Town South Africa and completed Project Wendy House, where TTC delegates from around the world helped build homes for disadvantaged families in Cape Town's surrounding townships. A total of 21 four-wall homes were constructed and donated to local communities, providing a significant step up for families in need. This philanthropic effort created both a strong business and social impact. In addition to building houses, TTC delegates also took part in hosting 600 young school children at a local theme park, giving children a day of smiles, laughter and love, which will stay with them for years to come.

 

Trafalgar also works with the National Trust to ensure that projects like the Giant Causeway succeed.

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