Fred Holidays has appointed Simon Sharpe as head of tour operations, beginning his new role on April 1.
Sharpe joins from Tui Musement where, as global Tui business development manager, he was responsible for developing, growing and coordinating new business opportunities within the Tui Group; supporting cross-regional and cross-company digitalisation projects and processes to maximise efficiency; and defining the business development strategy to support the company’s growth plan.
He has also held senior positions with Saga Holidays, Tui Travel and Acampora Travel.
Sharpe takes on the role that was previously led by Tricia Birmingham, who moved to Hays Travel last year.
In his new role, he will lead the Fred Holidays tour operating and e-commerce business, providing strategic leadership and direction to help shape the company as it continues to grow.
He will report to Julie Berry, managing director of Fred Olsen Travel.
Sharpe said: “I’m incredibly excited to be joining Fred Holidays and have the opportunity to work with such a well-respected and established brand within the travel industry.
“The company has a fantastic reputation for quality, expertise and customer service, and I’m really looking forward to working with the team to further develop the tour operating programme and build on that success.
“A key part of my role will also be supporting wider business development opportunities and helping to grow partnerships with the trade, while continuing to create memorable journeys for our customers.”
Berry added: “I am delighted that Simon has joined us, completing our Fred Olsen Travel leadership team and bringing with him a wealth of experience and an impressive track record in delivering commercial value and strategic growth.
“Simon joins at a very exciting time as we continue to see impressive growth across our five core products – independent touring, rail holidays, river cruise, cruise-and-stay and expedition cruise.
“I am confident that his strategic vision and customer-focused approach will prove invaluable in helping us achieve our growth objectives while continuing to support our loyal trade partners.”
The group also has general sales agency (GSA) accounts for Star Clippers, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions and Amadeus River Cruises.
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