Panache Cruises has announced the strategic appointment of two senior executives, aiming to drive its ambitious goal of reaching a £100 million turnover by 2027/28.
These appointments mark a bold stride in positioning Panache Cruises as a formidable force in the luxury cruise market, underscoring their commitment to strategic growth and innovation.
Strategic Expansion and Senior Talent Acquisition
Luxury cruise retailer, Panache Cruises, continues its strategic growth by appointing two high-caliber professionals to senior positions. The company’s turnover target of £100 million by 2027/28 underscores this strategic move. Alex Langton has been appointed as head of sales and operations and Rhianna Latham as head of people and culture, highlighting Panache’s commitment to distinguished leadership.
Founder James Cole expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It’s a significant step for us to have appointed two people of the calibre of Alex and Rhianna.” He highlighted the diverse professional backgrounds of Langton and Latham, which offer fresh perspectives crucial to the company’s forward momentum. Both appointees bring extensive experience, although from outside the cruise industry, which is set to infuse innovation into Panache’s operations.
Building a Customer-Centric Experience
Panache Cruises has always prioritized delivering a bespoke service to its clientele. The introduction of new senior roles aims to enhance this bespoke service, ensuring that each customer’s journey remains seamless and memorable from their first enquiry to the end of their trip.
Cole emphasized that Alex Langton’s role includes ensuring customers receive unparalleled experiences, stating, “All our customers get introduced to their own cruise connoisseur.” This level of personalization not only elevates the customer experience but also strengthens brand loyalty, which is pivotal for achieving their ambitious growth targets.
Investing in People and Culture
Panache Cruises recognises the importance of investing in people as a core part of its strategy. Appointing a head of people and culture at an early stage, despite the company’s current size, reflects this forward-thinking approach. It demonstrates a commitment to nurturing a motivated and cohesive workforce, pivotal to realising the company’s vision of becoming a global leader in luxury cruises.
Rhianna Latham’s previous experience as an HR business partner in the utilities sector equips her with the skills necessary to foster a supportive company culture at Panache Cruises. Her role is expected to drive initiatives that enhance employee satisfaction and company cohesion, creating a workplace where talent thrives.
Cole also mentioned the recruitment of new apprentices and cruise connoisseurs, supporting the company’s ambition to become the largest seller of luxury and ultra-luxury cruises worldwide by 2030. This investment in human resources is a testament to Panache’s commitment to not just growth, but sustainable growth.
Financial Growth and Market Penetration
The company’s financial health is robust, with a remarkable increase in turnover by 68% over the last financial year, achieving £22.2 million. This financial performance indicates a positive trajectory, aligning with the company’s ambitious £100 million target by 2027/28.
Panache Cruises has strategically expanded its footprint with the opening of an office in Orlando, USA, marking its commitment to international growth. Such moves are part of a broader strategy to capture market share and enhance its global presence.
With these strategic hires and a clear vision for growth, Panache Cruises is well-positioned to extend its influence across the luxury cruise industry, both in the UK and internationally, enhancing its services and market reach.
A Vision for Global Leadership
James Cole has articulated a clear future for Panache Cruises, aspiring to become the world’s largest seller of luxury and ultra-luxury cruises by 2030. This vision is supported by strategic appointments, investments in technology, and expansion into new markets.
The newly appointed leaders, Langton and Latham, are integral to steering the company towards this vision, ensuring operational excellence and a strong cultural foundation. Panache’s strapline, ‘nothing is too much trouble,’ encapsulates its service ethos, emphasizing a customer-first approach.
Such ambitions are supported by a robust operational framework aimed at delivering excellence at every customer touchpoint, from enquiry to return. This commitment to service excellence will likely further solidify Panache’s standing in the luxury cruise market.
Enhancing Service with Technology
Panache Cruises is leveraging technology to enhance its service offerings and customer experiences. The deployment of AI tools, in partnership with Lumien, is part of a broader strategy to achieve operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
These technological advancements aim to streamline operations, reduce overhead costs, and improve the overall customer journey, proving indispensable as the company scales its operations.
The integration of cutting-edge technologies supports Panache’s objectives of sustainable growth and enhancing its competitive edge in the luxury cruise market. This technological embrace is a strategic move to maintain its trajectory towards becoming a global leader.
Commitment to Sustainability
Panache Cruises is dedicated to sustainable practices as part of its long-term strategy. The company is exploring various initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint while enhancing its corporate social responsibility efforts.
Incorporating sustainability into its operations not only addresses environmental concerns but also aligns with the growing consumer demand for eco-conscious travel options. This commitment is expected to play a significant role in Panache’s ongoing growth and brand positioning.
Panache Cruises’ strategic hires and forward-thinking initiatives are set to propel the company towards becoming a global leader in the luxury cruise sector.
The focus on customer experience, technological innovations, and sustainability are integral to achieving their ambitious growth objectives.
