Ambassador Cruise Line has strengthened its trade team through a series of strategic appointments, marking a significant step forward in its development.
The expansion includes four business development executives, alongside trade support personnel, emphasising the company’s commitment to bolstering its support structure and enhancing trade relationships across the UK.
Strategic Expansion of the Trade Team
Ambassador Cruise Line has fortified its trade team by enlisting six new professionals, elevating the total number to 13. These appointments are part of a broader strategy to enhance trade relations across key regions in the UK. The newly appointed members bring a diverse range of experiences, promising to deliver enhanced support to trade partners.
The company’s strategic move aligns with its vision to extend its market presence and deepen relationships with travel agents. The appointment of experienced professionals signals a proactive approach to fulfilling the needs of trade partners and ensuring a robust support framework is in place.
Key Personnel and Roles
Debbie Ballantyne joins as Business Development Executive (BDE) covering Scotland and Northern Ireland. Reporting to Karen Cameron, she will play a crucial role in sustaining and growing trade partnerships. Ballantyne’s rich experience in sales makes her a valuable asset to the team.
Natalie Hurst becomes the BDE for the North Midlands, transitioning from The Travel Network Group. Her track record includes notable stints at Newell’s Travel, where she excelled as a branch manager. Her appointment promises to bring a dynamic approach to the Midlands region.
Completing the team in the Midlands is Kelly Whitefoot, who takes the helm as BDE for the South Midlands. Her extensive background with Aquilium Travel Group and other major operators like Tui and Thomas Cook positions her to make a meaningful impact in her new role.
Strengthening the Southern and Western Regions
Jade Cheadle has been entrusted with trade relations in the South West and Wales. Bringing experience from Tui, she is poised to drive growth and engagement with trade partners in this region.
Cheadle’s role is pivotal for maintaining and enhancing relationships with travel agents. Her background equips her to navigate the complexities of the trade and provide exceptional support.
Operating under Louise Tansey, the divisional sales manager for the south, Cheadle is expected to optimise and champion trade relations, further cementing Ambassador’s presence.
Enhancing Support Functions
Michelle Nairne joins as the Group Support Executive. Reporting to Alan Rennie, she will focus on contract execution and optimising business processes to exploit new opportunities. Her previous role at Adrian Flux Insurance Services has equipped her with skills valuable for this position.
Audra Garner transitions from a reservations specialist to become the Trade Support Assistant. This internal promotion underscores Ambassador’s commitment to nurturing talent and building a team ready to face future challenges.
In her new capacity, Garner will fortify the trade support function, ensuring the seamless operation of trade-related activities.
Strategic Vision and Leadership
Karen Cameron’s elevation to deputy head of trade reflects Ambassador’s dedication to leadership development. Her promotion necessitates searching for a new divisional sales manager to oversee trade in the north, highlighting the ongoing focus on strategic appointments.
Under Cameron’s leadership, the team is expected to continue its trajectory of growth and support for UK trade partners. This leadership change is a testament to Ambassador’s robust succession planning and commitment to internal advancement.
Corporate Outlook and Future Plans
Nicola Harper, head of distribution, emphasises the importance of these appointments in supporting trade partners effectively. Her vision involves equipping agents with the necessary tools and support to thrive.
Harper’s commitment to building a strong trade team indicates Ambassador Cruise Line’s long-term strategy while anticipating challenges and opportunities within the cruise industry.
Recruitment Initiatives
The cruise line is actively recruiting a new divisional sales manager for the north. This role becomes essential following Cameron’s promotion, ensuring that trade partnerships in Northern England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland remain robust.
Ambassador Cruise Line’s strategic appointments highlight its dedication to enhancing trade relations and supporting partners throughout the UK.
With a strengthened team, the company is well-positioned to meet future challenges and opportunities, ensuring comprehensive support for trade partners.
