TAG announces leadership expansion to support global growth

Edited by Travel Weekly

The Appointment Group, Ltd (TAG), a travel and event management company, has announced a major company-wide reorganisation and expansion of key roles planned for 2025.

Following ECI Partner’s investment in TAG in April 2024, this move supports their long-term strategic growth plans to further consolidate TAG’s position as the leading travel management company in entertainment and high-end corporate travel.

TAG chief executive officer, Jens Penny, announced the appointment of several executive positions to support the delivery of the long-term strategic plan and to ensure the company structure reflects the global nature of the business.

“I am delighted to announce the following changes to the Executive Team,” Jens Penny said. “Gabrielle Carr is appointed to chief operating officer for TAG, globally. In addition to her existing operational responsibilities in the US and EMEA, Gabrielle will now assume overall responsibility for APAC operations. Shane Barr is appointed as chief revenue officer for TAG, globally. Shane will have overall responsibility for new sales, business development, account management, and marketing in all regions for entertainment and corporate clients. Byron Carr is appointed president – global touring and will have ultimate responsibility for the strategic direction and vision for touring, the largest division in the business. Completing the Executive Team lineup and remaining in their current roles are Bruce Wildgust, chief technology officer, and Neil Barnes, interim chief financial officer.”

“I am elated to become more involved with our highly successful APAC operation,” Gabrielle Carr commented. “This opportunity feels like a full-circle moment, allowing me to work closely with teams in the region that holds personal significance for me—home. I look forward to contributing to the ongoing growth and success of TAG globally.”

Shane Barr has been with TAG for over a decade, having joined the company in 2012 to establish the Australian office. TAG has since seen growth across the APAC region, including the establishment of a production division, successful launches of offices in Singapore, New Zealand and each state in Australia, five acquisitions and significant business growth.

“I’m excited to be part of this new chapter for TAG, as it perfectly aligns with our ambitious global growth strategy,” Shane Barr said. “Over the past decade, I’ve been proud to lead TAG’s expansion in the APAC region and contribute to the company’s success. This new role presents an incredible opportunity to drive TAG’s global revenue growth, and I’m eager to help shape the future of our business on a global scale.”

From January 2025, John Gianquitto, TAG’s founder, will become a Global Ambassador for TAG after more than 35 successful years in the business. From setting up the company all the way through to a business that is now the largest touring travel company worldwide, Gianquitto will continue to provide TAG with the benefit of his experience and expertise. He will also provide counsel as they further expand upon the business.

“Working alongside John for 28 years has been a privilege, as I’ve had the opportunity to be mentored by the very best in the business,” Byron Carr said. “I’m honored to continue driving TAG’s growth by expanding into new markets, launching innovative client-facing technology and maintaining our commitment to delivering the best service in the industry.”

In addition to the changes on TAG’s Global Executive Team, Vicki Marcroft will be joining the Senior Leadership Team in December as Director of People & Culture. “Vicki comes with extensive experience in several multinational companies and will take responsibility for our people strategy, which is hugely important with nearly 500 colleagues across more than 20 global locations,” Jens Penny added.

The significant expansion and organisational changes position TAG for further growth and evolution in 2025 and beyond. “Join me in congratulating everyone on their new appointments as we start this next exciting chapter of TAG’s journey. I am thrilled for the future of TAG as we approach 2025 and look forward to continuing to pave the way for unrivalled travel management across the globe,” Penny concluded.

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