Huntington adds Robert Cole & William Duplak to leadership team

Huntington Travel Group has appointed two industry veterans to its leadership team: William “Bill” Duplak, who has been named senior vice president, operations and client management, and Robert Cole, now vice president, global business development, effective immediately.

The hires signal a new phase of growth for the company, combining Duplak’s airline and commercial expertise with Cole’s global partnership acumen to elevate advisor support and expand market reach.

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.

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.

“Bill and Robert each bring unparalleled expertise at a pivotal moment for Huntington,” said the group’s chief executive, Chippy Jegathesan. “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.”

Huntington Travel Group says the move reinforces its commitment to equipping advisors with competitive tools like platform access, Hunt Rewards and curated inventory.

“Cole’s hire amplifies Huntington’s ability to deliver strategic partnerships worldwide, while Duplak’s commercial acumen will shape the newly launched cruise product, hotel and air offerings,” the company said.

It also comes as travellers increasingly prioritize expert advisors over DIY bookings, Huntington said.

“Huntington’s 52-year legacy is built on putting advisors first. I’m excited to amplify that through strategic partnerships and expert access to worldwide destinations,” stated Duplak.

Cole added: “Joining a well-established company committed to the success of our industry aligns perfectly with my goals. I look forward to collaborating with global partners to deliver best-in-class solutions and drive mutual growth.”

Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today! Click here to follow PAX on Facebook.