The founder of Australia’s most awarded travel agency, Phil Hoffmann Travel, is embarking on a new adventure – with a one-way ticket to retirement.
Phil Hoffmann is stepping down on June 30 after 35 years as an icon of the travel industry.
PHT will continue to operate under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Peter Williams, offering the same quality of service, values and commitment that customers know and love.
Mr Hoffmann started the business in 1990 with a staff of two. His love of cruising led to the creation of Australia’s first dedicated cruise department, and later, escorted group tours. Phil continued to innovate in the cruise space as one of the founding directors of Cruiseco, specialising in fly/cruise packaging, music charters and incentive groups. Phil’s passion for cruising has no boundaries.
Today, PHT has more than 160 staff across ten branches and 13 National Awards.
Mr Hoffmann won’t be packing away his passport just yet – he will retain an ambassadorial role, leading tours and continuing to advocate for PHT and the travel industry. He will also remain on the board of Phil Hoffmann Travel as an Executive Director. Mr Williams, who has worked at PHT for 32 years, will hold the Chairman’s position and remains majority shareholder of the business. His strategic vision for growth and diversity across the business has been a key driver of PHT’s success, which includes leading the market nationally in many destinations and products. Michelle Ashcroft, who has been with PHT for 28 years, will move into the role of Chief Operating Officer. Her passion for forging strong and successful relationships with industry partners – and a positive, rewarding work culture - has made her an integral part of the PHT family, and its success.
“This truly has been the adventure of a lifetime, and I’m incredibly proud of this company and what we have achieved. I have been fortunate to travel all over the world, connecting with different people and cultures, and experiencing all its beauty, wonder, power and fragility along the way. Now is the time for a new chapter. Phil Hoffmann Travel is in the very best hands and I look forward to watching it continue to thrive and grow, while helping South Australians to create memories for a lifetime.” - Phil Hoffmann.
“These are exciting times for Phil Hoffmann Travel as we invest in innovating and elevating the business. “Our day-to-day business remains unchanged. Our Senior Leadership team and I have effectively been steering the company direction for some time and will continue to do so with the same determination and commitment to growth and success. “I and the entire PHT family thank Phil for his hard work, vision and determination which saw a family business grow into Australia’s most awarded travel agency. We are excited and proud to continue this legacy.” - Peter Williams.
