Eric Hart Returns to Expedia in Strategy Role
Expedia Group has announced the return of Eric Hart as its chief strategy, business and corporate development officer, marking a significant leadership move as the company intensifies its focus on innovation and platform expansion. Hart rejoins Expedia after departing in 2022, following a 13-year tenure where he held several leadership roles, including chief financial officer and chief strategy officer. He also previously served as general manager of CarRentals.com and played a key role in Expedia’s corporate development initiatives.
Since leaving Expedia, Hart had been serving as the chief financial officer at financial technology firm Plaid, gaining experience that CEO Ariane Gorin believes will be instrumental as Expedia evolves. He is also chair of the supervisory board at Trivago, which remains majority-owned by Expedia Group. Hart will now report directly to Gorin, who stepped into the CEO role just over a year ago and has since been reshaping the executive team.
Gorin praised Hart’s return, citing his long-standing strategic insight, strong industry relationships, and ability to build high-value partnerships. She noted that his recent fintech experience brings a valuable perspective as Expedia embraces artificial intelligence and continues to build out its travel platform.
Hart’s return follows a wave of leadership changes under Gorin’s direction. Last year, Expedia named Scott Schenkel as chief financial officer, Shilpa Ranganathan as chief product officer, and Ramana Thumu as chief technology officer. These appointments reflect a broader effort to strengthen the company’s executive team and align with a long-term vision centered on AI, growth and B2B innovation.
The leadership update follows Expedia Group’s spring product release, where the company introduced advanced API tools, new advertising solutions, and AI-driven capabilities for its growing B2B segment. Hart’s appointment further emphasizes the company’s strategic direction and commitment to driving transformation across the travel ecosystem.
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