TripAdvisor co-founder and long-time chief govt, Stephen Kaufer, will step down from his place in 2022.

Kaufer co-founded TripAdvisor in 2000 with the mission to assist travellers all over the world plan and guide the “perfect trip”.

Over the previous 21 years, underneath his management, the corporate has grown into the biggest journey web site on the earth, with workers in over 20 international locations and working localised journey websites in over 40 markets.

“We come to the close of 2021 in a strong position – travellers are returning as we exit the pandemic, exciting new initiatives are well on their way, and we continue to leverage our strengths as we evolve TripAdvisor for the future,” stated Kaufer.

“Given our strong position, the talented teams driving our plans forward, and after over 20 years at TripAdvisor, I believe now is the best time to announce my plans to step away from the company next year. 

“I have such respect and appreciation for all the teams over the years who have made this company what it is today, and remain devoted to continuing to guide the TripAdvisor family as chief executive until the transition is complete.”

The board of administrators at TripAdvisor has initiated an open search a successor.

Greg Maffei, chairman of the board at TripAdvisor, acknowledged: “Steve has been the driving drive at TripAdvisor since its launch in 2000. 

“His contributions to the consumer’s travel experience are immeasurable, and his vision has resulted in the TripAdvisor we know today.”

He added: “We are fortunate to already have excellent internal candidates, and we will complement this with an external search to ensure we get the best leader for TripAdvisor.”