Manny Fontenla-Novoa steps down as Group CEO

3 August 2011

Thomas Cook Group plc

Manny Fontenla-Novoa steps down as Group CEO

Thomas Cook Group plc announces today that Group CEO Manny Fontenla-Novoa is to step down from his role with immediate effect.

Sam Weihagen, currently Deputy to the Group CEO, will take on the role of Interim Group CEO. A search process is underway to identify a permanent successor and an announcement will be made in due course.

The Group has today announced its interim management statement and remains on track to meet expectations for the full year.

Michael Beckett, Chairman said:

"The Board would like to thank Manny for his contribution to the Group. He leaves with our very best wishes for the future.

"In Sam Weihagen, we have a highly successful and experienced executive and the Board has every confidence in his ability to lead the Group until a new CEO is appointed."

Manny Fontenla-Novoa said:

"Thomas Cook and its people have a sound heritage and I have been proud to have been part of the company."

Enquiries

Thomas Cook Group plc +44 (0) 20 7557 6413

Investor Relations

Finsbury +44 (0) 20 7251 3801

Faeth Birch

Notes for Editors

Manny Fontenla-Novoa joined the Company in 1996 upon the acquisition of Sunworld, which was then the UK's fourth largest tour operator. He was appointed Group CEO following the merger with MyTravel Group plc in June 2007.

Sam Weihagen is currently Chairman of the Northern Europe segment and led that business as CEO, one of the most successful in the travel industry, until December 2010. He has been in the role of Deputy to the Group CEO since November 2009.