Hostelworld taps Expedia head of retail as new CEO

Hostelworld has snagged Expedia’s head of retail, Garry Morrison to replace outgoing CEO, Feargal Mooney when he steps down next month.

After 16 years with the group and 10 years as CEO, Mooney will step down on June 11.

A release from the company said, Morrison was appointed after a “rigorous search process” and will take the wheel immediately after the AGM.

Before joining Expedia seven years ago, Morrison worked with Google and Motorola.

According to Skift, Mooney led Hostelworld to an IPO in 2015, where it has since raised $215 million, with an initial share set at $2.21, now trading at $5.34.

Hostelworld attributes the globalisation of the business to Mooney, who developed offices in  Shanghai, Seoul and Sydney.

“He has been one of the leading campaigners for the hostel industry during his time as Chief Executive,” the company said in a statement.

“The Board would like to express its profound appreciation to Feargal for his stellar contribution to the Group over the last 16 years,” said Michael Cawley, Chairman of Hostelworld.

“His role in Hostelworld’s development has been crucial and undoubtedly Hostelworld wouldn’t occupy its pre-eminent position in the market were it not for Feargal’s commitment and leadership. He leaves behind a business with significant competitive advantages and momentum. We wish him every success in his future endeavours.”

“We are delighted to appoint a candidate of Gary’s calibre and experience to succeed Feargal. Gary’s experience of the travel industry together with his track record of growth in an online marketing business make him an ideal choice to drive the business forward and deliver on our ambitious goals.”

Mooney said it has been his honour to lead Hostelworld from start-up to PLC.

“After sixteen years developing the business, ten as Chief Executive, I believe that a change will be good for me personally and for Hostelworld,” he said.

“I am delighted to hand over to Gary Morrison to whom I extend my congratulations, and I am confident that Gary and the team will lead Hostelworld to even greater levels of success in the years ahead.”