Huntington Travel Group Adds Veterans Duplak and Cole to Leadership Team
by Bruce Parkinson
Huntington Travel Group, a leading name in travel consolidation serving North American advisors for over 52 years, has appointed two industry veterans to its leadership team: William “Bill” Duplak as Sr. Vice President – Operations & Client Management and Robert Cole as Vice President – Global Business Development, effective immediately.
The company says these strategic hires signal a new phase of growth, combining Duplak’s airline and commercial expertise with Cole’s global partnership acumen to elevate advisor support and expand market reach. The goal is to accelerate growth in hotels, air sales, small ship cruise markets, and global partnerships, anticipating increased demand for curated travel solutions.
Duplak brings 30 years of airline and commercial leadership, including key roles as Vice President of South Pacific at Voyzant, Commercial Lead for Qantas Airways and Finnair in Canada, and a 13-year tenure as Regional General Manager of South America. His appointment coincides with Huntington’s expansion into new cruise product lines and air sales initiatives, ensuring advisors have access to seamless, high-value travel solutions.
“Huntington’s 52-year legacy is built on putting advisors first,” Duplak said in a press release. “I’m excited to amplify that through strategic partnerships and expert access to worldwide destinations.”
Cole, a 30 year travel industry veteran, joins from leadership roles held at Travelex Insurance Services and Allianz, where he focused on driving revenue growth and building strategic partnerships. In his new role, he will spearhead Huntington’s global business development efforts, forging alliances that empower advisors with best-in-class tools, inventory, and service.
“Joining a well-established company committed to the success of our industry aligns perfectly with my goals,” said Cole. “I look forward to collaborating with global partners to deliver best-in-class solutions and drive mutual growth.”
Group chief executive, Chippy Jegathesan said Duplak and Cole each bring unparalleled expertise at a pivotal moment for the company. “Bill’s command of air and cruise markets, combined with Robert’s proven ability to unlock global opportunities, will accelerate our mission to be the travel advisor’s go-to partner for growth. Their leadership ensures we stay ahead of evolving demands in luxury, group travel, and emerging destinations.”
