Senior Industry Figure and former Tourism Society Board member remembered

It is with much sadness that we announce the death of senior industry figure and previous Tourism Society Board member and Fellow, Roger Heape.

Roger spent over 30 years in the tour operating and airline leisure industry in a variety of high-profile roles including Thomson Holidays as Commercial Director, Intasun Holidays and then British Airways Holidays as Managing Director. He was Chair of the Travel Foundation and over the years played a leading role in environmental initiatives, receiving the Observer editor’s award in recognition of his contribution to sustainable tourism.

‘Roger was a dear colleague in the industry and we worked together very closely when he was with BA Holidays. He was a very valuable member of the board while I was chairman and continued to support the Society attending Fellow events such as the Olympic Park preview. He will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humour and commitment to sustainable tourism. One of the industry’s legends.’

Alison Cryer, Head of Secretariat.

Very sad news. He was Commercial Director all the time I was at Thomson and then my direct boss at Intasun – loved working for him. Always had time and very easy to discuss things with. A very kind man with a sense of humour. Plus a great range of fluorescent socks!

Philippa Harris, Board Member

Read the Travel Weekly coverage here