Chartwell Travel acquired by Ovation Travel Group

The London-base will be Ovation’s first wholly-owned location outside the US.

Founded in 1991, Chartwell is a leading provider of comprehensive, tailor-made business travel services.

Ovation said in Chartwell, it had acquired a business with a reputation for its “high touch” service, and a client list across numerous high profile industries such as entertainment, film, TV and media.

“We are extremely excited about the opportunities this acquisition brings,” said Paul Metselaar, Ovation chairman and chief executive.

“Chartwell has been delivering outstanding service for more than 25 years. Former shareholder, Marshall Joseph, has led the operation over the last decade and will continue to lead that office. We look forward to welcoming the entire Chartwell team into the Ovation family.”

Ovation’s UK operations will be led by Tina Rose, who is joining the company as managing director, with Joseph reporting to Rose.

Industry veteran Rose most recently spent more than 10 years with Protravel International, and will oversee the group’s growth in the UK.

She said the agreement was “a win both for Chartwell and its clients”, adding: “This combination will grow our community of travel professionals with improved economics and technology delivering even greater results for our clients and industry partners.”

Chartwell will serve as a base for Ovation’s luxury leisure and corporate independent travel advisors.