Visit London's commercial director quits role

The commercial director of Visit London, David Hornby, has left the organisation after six years to work with AEG Europe, which owns London's O2 venue.

The departure follows that of former chief executive James Bidwell who left the tourism body in September last year to join US retailer Anthropologie. He has yet to be replaced.

Hornby, who joined Visit London six years ago, said he wished to stay in the industry but felt it was just "time to go".

He said: "Six years is a long time in the role - you either stay and go on through the Olympics or look for something new.

"I will still be involved in the Olympics but I felt it was a good time to go. With three years to go, it means I can be involved in driving other projects while championing and supporting the Games."

Hornby will continue to work within the industry, initially with a role at AEG to drive its meetings and events business.

Visit London's interim chief executive Sally Chatterjee said: "After six years with Visit London, David Hornby has made the decision to leave to focus on new challenges and opportunities.

"We would like to thank David for his hard work and contribution to the business and to wish him every success for the future."

Tracy Halliwell will continue to head up business and convention services at the organisation, while plans to find a new head for events will be put in place over the coming weeks.

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By Gemma Sharkey

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