Travel software firm Datalex has appointed MasterCard's innovation chief to its board.

Garry Lyons, who also heads up MasterCard Labs, joins as a non-executive director of the irish-listed firm.

Mr Lyons was previously chief executive of payment solutions firm Orbiscom and held senior technology positions in Cognotec, Credo and ICL.

Datalex chairman Paschal Taggart said Mr Lyons would bring a " wealth of experience and expertise" in the global software industry to Datalex.

“I am confident that he will make a significant contribution to both the board and the business, as we continue to successfully implement our ambitious growth strategy over the coming months and years,” he said.

Datalex provides ecommerce and retail software to the travel industry, with customers such as Aer Lingus, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Air China and STA Travel.

The Dublin headquartered firm was founded in 1985, and has expanded to open offices in Europe, the US and Asia-Pacific.