Travelport has appointed William Hill's Thomas Murphy as its new general counsel as the travel platform expands its executive team following its initial public offering in September.

Murphy worked at the gambling company for eight years, joining as GC and company secretary in 2007. He also recently served as head of business systems and was responsible for the company's regulated US gaming businesses in Las Vegas.

Prior to his time at William Hill, Murphy worked at food business RHM and served as general counsel of the AA for three years.

Travelport provides distribution, technology, payment and other solutions for the travel and tourism industry.

Following Murphy's departure, William Hill has promoted Michael Leadbeater to group director of legal services. Previously, Leadbeater served as legal counsel from 2008-2010, and latterly as general counsel and head of commercial for William Hill Online.

Travelport president and chief executive Gordon Wilson said: "Thomas' experience working as general counsel in publicly listed companies, with an international business dimension, across multiple regulatory environments make him a significant addition to our global management team."