Founded in 2007, St Albans-based PrivateFly is the only online aggregator for private jet charter in Europe.
It enables users to submit a flight request and compare prices from a network of 2,600 operators worldwide, who then bid to win the contract.
The company also offers a full white label solution for travel partners, which includes private jet booking technology, destinations and instant pricing.
PrivateFly said Bevan’s appointment would provide a ‘significant boost’ to its plans to apply online travel strategies to the traditionally offline private charter market.
Adam Twidell, founder and chief executive, added: ‘We are delighted that John is joining us, and his appointment underpins our ambitious expansion plans.
‘He brings invaluable skills, industry contacts and online marketing expertise, all of which will provide a powerful boost to the business.
‘Through PrivateFly’s white label solution, our travel partners are able to offer their valued clients a superb service, and can tap into a lucrative revenue stream at the same time.
‘John will play a pivotal role in driving growth in this area.’
Bevan commented: ‘PrivateFly has the potential to bring about exciting change in the private jet market, and a great opportunity for the travel industry, given it offers significant opportunity to unify what is currently a fragmented market.
‘Brokering has been transformed by the use of the internet in nearly all other markets, except private aviation.
‘PrivateFly is a unique, user-friendly tool for customers and travel partners alike, and I’m looking forward to working with the team during this exciting phase.’
Bevan joined lastminute.com in 2004 when it purchased the Online Travel Company (OTC), where he was marketing and product director.
He became UK B2C managing director for lastminute.com in July 2007 and left the company in October 2008.
Prior to OTC, Bevan worked for EMAP Digital Travel, where as managing director he was responsible for restructuring the company prior to its sale to OTC in June 2001.
Bevan began his career in travel as international sales director for hotel company Groupe Envergure.
See also:
Bevan joins TV/web venture Travel Deals Direct (05/06/2009)
lastminute.com names Bevan’s successor (12/05/2009)
Bevan to boost CallUma trade profile (16/01/2009)
Bevan quits lastminute.com (17/10/2008)
Virgin Charter goes live (06/03/2008)