Toronto-based Trevello World Holdings will launch a U.S. host agency to be led by longtime agency executive Erwing Hernandez.
Erwing Hernandez
Trevello has created a U.S. division that will operate the new host agency, with Hernandez named the division's president. Hernandez departed host agency Travel Planners International earlier this year. He had spent more than two decades with TPI, most recently as senior vice president.
"With a strong foundation in Canada and a commitment to reshaping the host agency model, we have an incredible opportunity to empower U.S. travel advisors and create new pathways for success," Hernandez said in a statement. "My focus is on building a strong, sustainable framework that allows advisors to build thriving businesses of their own."
The new host agency, which will operate under the Trevello brand, will launch on May 1.
"As we continue our expansion into the leading travel market, it's critical that we have a leader who not only understands this market but is deeply committed to supporting travel advisors," Trevello World Holdings co-founder and CEO Morris Chia said in a statement. "Erwing's extensive experience, leadership and strategic vision make him the right person to drive our growth while staying true to our mission of redefining the host agency model."
Trevello World Holdings is the parent company of host agency Trevello Canada. The company acquired North Carolina-based host agency Gifted Travel Network in January. Gifted continues to operate independently within Trevello World Holdings, led by co-founder and CEO Jen Cochrane. It is Trevello's luxury-focused division.
Trevello began making inroads to the U.S. market last summer, when it announced an expansion of its network of independent contractors. That continued with its January acquisition of Gifted.
UPDATE: Elizabeth Crabill is no longer with Trevello.